Tripura CM Manik Saha stresses sustainable water strategy, reviews Gomati River project for Agartala

Agartala (Tripura) [India], June 25 (HBTV): Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Thursday underscored the need for a long-term and sustainable water resource management strategy for the state, directing officials to work in mission mode to meet future drinking water requirements amid rapid urbanisation and climate-related challenges.

According to the Chief Minister's Office, Saha made the remarks while chairing a high-level review meeting on the proposed Gomati River-based water supply project for Agartala at the TIFT War Room.

He said planning should not be confined to addressing the present needs of the state capital alone but should focus on ensuring water security for future generations across Tripura.

At the outset of the meeting, Good Governance Department Secretary Kiran Gitte gave a detailed presentation on Agartala's current and projected drinking water demand, the limitations of the existing supply system, and the proposed long-term water supply project centred on the Gomati River.

Officials informed the meeting that a substantial portion of Agartala's drinking water currently depends on groundwater sources. However, rapid population growth, expanding urbanisation and recurring water shortages during the dry season have highlighted the need for a sustainable surface water-based supply system.

The proposed project envisages drawing water from the Maharani Barrage area in Udaipur and developing the required infrastructure, including transmission pipelines, reservoirs and water treatment facilities, to ensure an uninterrupted supply to consumers.

Reviewing the proposal, Saha stressed the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to water resource management and drinking water planning for the entire state. He directed officials to formulate long-term strategies and expedite implementation in mission mode.

The Chief Minister also called for measures to minimise water wastage and optimise the use of available water resources. He emphasised the importance of effective rainwater harvesting and storage during the monsoon so that conserved water can be utilised during periods of scarcity.

'With determination and sustained effort, even seemingly impossible goals can be achieved. Long-term vision often lays the foundation for significant success,' Saha said, while highlighting the importance of efficient governance and strategic planning.

The meeting also discussed the possibility of establishing a permanent Gomati River-based water supply system to meet future demand, along with the excavation of dedicated raw water reservoirs to store water during the dry season.

Officials observed that such measures would further strengthen the state's capacity to ensure an uninterrupted drinking water supply in the years ahead.

(ANI)