Need to strengthen sanitation and drainage systems, Haryana CM directs officials

Chandigarh, April 3 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Friday stressed the need to strengthen sanitation and drainage systems in rural areas, directing officers concerned to ensure regular and time-bound cleaning of village ponds and wastewater channels across the state. 

Chairing a review meeting of the Haryana Pond and Waste Water Management Authority here, the Chief Minister said maintaining cleanliness in villages must be a priority to prevent inconvenience to residents. He underlined that village ponds should remain free from foul smell, and waterlogging in residential areas must be avoided at all costs.

The Chief Minister further directed that cleaning, desilting and drainage works be carried out under a structured Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to ensure transparency, quality and accountability. He also called for improved planning and the use of modern technology and scientific design in the construction, reconstruction and modernisation of ponds. He directed officers to undertake beautification works around ponds to create clean and accessible spaces for villagers, including for morning and evening walks.

To enhance efficiency, CM Saini suggested the use of solar pumps for regular cleaning and maintaining water flow. He warned that negligence in sanitation at the village level would invite strict action, with accountability fixed on concerned officials, sarpanches and staff.

Further, he directed that Panchayat Secretaries be assigned responsibility for regular monitoring of ponds in every village and that the number of sanitation workers be increased to strengthen the system.

Highlighting the government’s broader objective, the Chief Minister said efforts are aimed at developing clean, well-maintained and functional water bodies in rural areas, ensuring lasting relief from waterlogging, unhygienic conditions and foul odour.

According to officials, 6,538 ponds have been identified under the state’s action plan, of which 2,758 projects have received administrative approval. So far, 1,718 works have been completed, while 484 are in progress.