Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on June 25 asked officials to come up with a long-term plan for managing the state’s water resources, saying future drinking water needs must be addressed through sustainable measures instead of temporary fixes.
Speaking at a high-level review meeting on the proposed Gomati River-based water supply project for Agartala at the TIFT War Room, Saha said the project should cater not only to the city’s current demand but also ensure water security for future generations across the state.
During the meeting, Good Governance Department Secretary Kiran Gitte gave a presentation on Agartala’s present and future drinking water requirements. He highlighted the shortcomings of the existing system and explained the proposed surface water supply project.
Officials noted that a large portion of Agartala’s drinking water still depends on groundwater. However, increasing urbanisation, a growing population and water shortages during the dry season have made a dependable surface water source essential.
The proposed plan aims to draw water from the Maharani Barrage in Udaipur on the Gomati River. It also includes the construction of transmission pipelines, reservoirs and water treatment plants to ensure a steady water supply.
Reviewing the proposal, Saha directed departments to work in mission mode and prepare a comprehensive water management strategy for the entire state. He also stressed the need to minimise water wastage, make better use of available resources and strengthen rainwater harvesting so that water collected during the monsoon can be used during lean periods.
The meeting further discussed the possibility of developing a permanent Gomati River-based water supply system and creating dedicated raw water reservoirs to improve availability during dry seasons.
“With determination and continuous effort, even difficult goals can be achieved. Long-term planning often becomes the key to major success,” Saha said, underlining the importance of strategic thinking and effective governance.
Finance Minister Pranajit Singha Roy, Assembly Speaker Ram Pada Jamatia, Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder, MLA Abhishek Debroy and senior officials from different departments were present at the meeting.