Chikkamagaluru: MLC Dr Ravi C T has sought a comprehensive probe into alleged irregularities, poor-quality works and lapses in the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission in Karnataka.
In a letter to chief minister D K Shivakumar dated September 12, Ravi said the government must ascertain whether the scheme, aimed at providing tap water to every rural household, was actually delivering the intended benefits.
According to the figures cited in his letter, Karnataka has 1,01,30,702 rural households. Before the scheme was launched, 24,28,517 households had tap connections. So far, connections have reportedly been provided to 63,74,100 additional households, taking the total to 88,02,617. The expenditure has been around Rs 37,901.37 crore, he said.
Ravi urged the government to thoroughly assess the technical and execution capabilities of contractors before awarding works. He also cautioned against entrusting projects beyond prescribed limits to a single contractor, saying this could affect quality and timely completion.
He said works should not be taken up before ensuring the availability of a reliable water source. Complaints of leakage in newly constructed overhead tanks and inadequate water supply to houses in elevated areas should also be investigated, he said.
The MLC called for action against contractors who had allegedly abandoned works midway. He also sought strict instructions to restore roads dug up for laying pipelines to their original condition.
Ravi urged the government to physically verify completed projects, including pipelines, overhead tanks, water sources and household connections, instead of relying solely on official records.
He sought the formation of a high-level investigation team to inspect Jal Jeevan Mission works across Karnataka, including Chikkamagaluru, and fix responsibility for poor-quality or incomplete works and water-supply failures.
Ravi has also written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, seeking an inquiry and corrective measures to ensure that every rural household receives the intended benefits of the scheme.