Amid water crisis spreading across north India, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar lal on Tuesday called on Union Minister of State for Power, New and Renewable Energy, RK Singh to discuss issues related to providing adequate supply of water for drinking and irrigation purpose for the state.
During the meeting held at New Delhi, Manohar lal apprised the Union Minister about the drinking and irrigation water needs of Haryana.
The Chief Minister, interacting with the mediapersons later said that discussions were held in the meeting regarding water regulation of Bhakra-Beas Management Board (BBMB).
He said that the Central Government would give top priority to policy regarding availability of drinking water by BBMB. The appointment of member belonging to Haryana in BBMB would soon be made, said he.
Manohar lal said that the Centre was apprised about the drinking and irrigation water needs of Haryana. As the level of water has gone down therefore the Board should be directed to maintain its proper water regulation. As the temperature is rising during summer season, assurance for supply of drinking water is needed, said he.
The Chief Minister further said that it has been decided in the meeting that the first priority would be given to drinking water and then to irrigation.
He also said that the Centre would soon give grant of Rs 550 crore to Haryana under Smart Grid Power Scheme at Gurugram. Work is under progress for providing 24 hour power supply in Gurugram through Smart Grid Power Scheme, said he.
Under the Mhara Gaon-Jagmag Gaon Yojana, 24 hour power is being supplied in five districts namely Gurugram, Faridabad, Sirsa, Ambala and Panchkula. Similarly, power is being supplied for 12 to 15 hours in some villages and for 18 to 21 hours in some places, said Manohar lal.
He added that this scheme of Haryana has become very popular and even other states have also asking about this scheme.
Earlier, the Union Minister of State for Power, RK Singh said at present, water availability is less.
This year, 40 per cent less snowfall had taken place in hilly areas and due to supply of water for irrigation, the water level has reached dead level. In view of the availability of water level, ensuring drinking water availability would be first priority. Thereafter, water would be provided for irrigation and power purposes, said he.
In this regard, dialogue would also be held with Punjab Chief Minister, the Union Minister said.
Singh also said that panel has been formed for appointing of Haryana member in BBMB and soon the member would be appointed.
The Union Minister also appreciated the Mhara Gaon-Jagmag Gaon scheme of Haryana. This scheme would be presented in meetings with other states. The Central Government is satisfied with the improvement made by Haryana in the field of energy. The State Government has reduced the line losses and brought it to about 20 per cent, he said.