J&K House Panel Slams 'Gross Negligence' in JJM Implementation, Recommends High-Level Probe

The Jammu & Kashmir House Committee has released a scathing 1,252-page report on the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in the Union Territory. This highlights administrative machinery shortcomings and alleged irregularities in the shift from Galvanized Iron (GI) to High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes.

The report states that the Apex Level Committee. Tasked with monitoring JJM implementation at various levels. Failed to fulfill its mandate as outlined in the order and defined in the Terms of Reference. This lack of oversight resulted in inadequate planning, supervision, and effective monitoring of the scheme.

for the consequences.

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The report highlights alleged negligence in maintenance and safety of stores. Misplaced priorities, substandard civil works, and irregularities in laying the pipe network as other issues.

The Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) was launched in 2019 with a target completion date of 2024. However, its implementation was affected by various factors. This includes constitutional changes and the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the report, JJM had a key role for all community institutions, including gram panchayats and pani samities. However, these institutions were denied their roles in the scheme's implementation.

The committee has recommended establishing a High Level Committee to investigate lapses committed by committee members and examine the mechanism followed by the UT-level purchases committee during contract awarding.

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The department stated that the execution process underwent significant changes during the initial two-year period. Which differed from the rest of the country's approach. In J&K, these methods were attempted but ultimately unsuccessful due to geographical constraints, road connectivity issues, and a lack of local skilled manpower.

and resulted in a lack of proper planning, supervision, and effective monitoring. It also criticized the decision to shift from GI pipes to HDPE. Attributing it to the Apex Level Committee's failure to ensure accountability.

It has also urged fixing responsibility on officers. Officials, contractors, suppliers, or agencies found responsible for procurement, approval, or utilization of substandard material.