Gangtok, June 8 – Residents of the 23 Shyari Constituency recently voiced their concerns regarding the sluggish pace and perceived quality issues of the ongoing Jal Jeevan Mission works during a public hearing held on June 7 at GPK Bhawan in Kopibari. The gathering, convened under the aegis of the Shyari Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU), saw a robust turnout from six of the constituency’s wards, eager to hold authorities accountable for the ambitious water supply project.
The hearing was presided over by the 23 Shyari Constituency’s own MLA, Tenzing Norbu Lamtha, and witnessed the presence of a host of key officials. Dignitaries included Hon’ble Zilla Panchayat members, local Panchayat representatives, District Collector of Gangtok, ADC Gangtok, and Shri T.T. Bhutia, the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Nandok. Also in attendance were the DPO, CLC President, Youth Convenor, and a significant number of concerned local residents, all keen to participate in the open forum.
The Jal Jeevan Mission, a flagship initiative by the Government of India, promises individual tap connections to deliver safe and adequate drinking water to every rural household. While the mission has achieved considerable milestones nationwide, the implementation within the 23 Shyari Constituency has been met with growing unease among its populace.
The public hearing served as a crucial platform for direct engagement between the public and the various implementing agencies. Residents from the six participating wards seized the opportunity to articulate their observations, grievances, and offer suggestions pertinent to the water supply works. Recurring issues highlighted by the community included frustrating delays in pipeline installations, erratic water supply in certain localities, and apprehensions regarding the quality of materials being utilised in the project.
Addressing the assembled gathering, MLA Tenzing Norbu Lamtha reassured the public that their concerns would not fall on deaf ears and would be addressed with promptness. He underscored the critical importance of the mission, stating, “The Jal Jeevan Mission is a vital project for ensuring safe drinking water to every home. We are committed to its proper and transparent implementation in every ward of this constituency.”
The District Collector of Gangtok also emphasised the invaluable role of community feedback in such large-scale initiatives. He encouraged residents to maintain their vigilance and continue monitoring the progress of the works in their respective areas. “We welcome constructive feedback. Public participation helps us identify gaps and act quickly to correct them,” the Collector remarked, reinforcing the administration’s commitment to a collaborative approach.