Meghalaya’s ambitious Rs 398.48 cr water supply scheme base laid in Tura

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJanuary 28, 2025

Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma on January 27 laid the Foundation Stone for Greater Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme at a function held at Tura District Auditorium. Also present during the inauguration were Minister, PHED, Marcuise N Marak, Chief Secretary, D P Wahlang, Principal Secretary, PHED, S M A Razi and Chief Engineer, PHED, B M Lyndem and other officials from the district administration.

Speaking during the inauguration, Chief Minister, Conrad K Sangma, said that the project was first mentioned in 2004, about 21 years back when he was contesting for the By Election in Selsella. “This project was conceptualized with Late P A Sangma in 2004-2005 where it was envisioned that this project would not only ease the water problems faced by urban Tura even during those days but would benefit Agriculture, Fisheries and Tourism. Therefore it gives me great happiness that the foundation stone for this project is being laid today,” he said.

He also informed that the Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme with an estimated cost of Rs 398.48 Cr is an ambitious project to address the water shortages faced by the town of Tura and that it is designed to provide Tura with a dependable and sustainable water supply.

The Chief Minister also informed that the project is funded by the Government of India through the Special Assistance on Capital Investment and added that the project is expected to be completed in about 24-36 months. “This scheme is a reflection of the government’s commitment to improving the quality of life for all residents of Tura. By investing in this vital infrastructure, we are not only addressing an immediate need but also laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and development,” he said.

He added that once completed, the project will have a lasting impact on public health, support economic growth, and enhance the overall quality of life for Tura’s residents. He also said that the Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme is not just an infrastructure project; it is a vision for a better, sustainable future for Tura. He also called for the active participation and engagement of the local community for the successful implementation of the project. “I urge every stakeholder and solicit the cooperation of all concerned to extend their support especially in the preservation and protection of the catchment areas for the government can only initiate projects, build reservoirs but the source of water for these reservoirs and dams are the catchment areas that needs to be protected. By involving residents in every step of the process, we aim to create a sense of ownership and responsibility, empowering the people of Tura to take pride in their contributions to the development of their town,” he said.

Further the Chief Minister highlighted some of the developmental schemes and projects for Tura to secure a better future for all citizens. It may be mentioned here that the Tura Urban Water Supply Scheme will include the construction of a new storage dam, two-stage pumping stations, a water treatment plant, feeder mains, zonal reservoirs, and advanced distribution networks. By utilising the consistent dry-weather discharge from the Ganol River, we will ensure a reliable supply of clean water, capable of meeting the growing demand. The goal is to provide 135 litres of water per capita per day, factoring in wastage, institutional needs, and floating populations.

Key features of the scheme include the construction of zonal reservoirs with capacities ranging from 200,000 to 600,000 litres to distribute water efficiently across different areas of Tura. The Ganol River will serve as the primary water source, and the project will also include the construction of a 30 MLD-capacity water treatment plant, pumping mains, feeder systems, and a distribution network covering about 66 kilometres.

Beneficiaries of CM Elevate and Community-Led Tourism Infrastructure Scheme were also handed over their assistance and benefits during the ocassion.