Itanagar: Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched India's first solar-based Integrated Multi-Village Water Supply Project (IMVWSP) in Arunachal Pradesh. The solar-based lift water supply project for 39 villages in Lower Dibang Valley district in Arunachal has been commissioned at a cost of Rs 28.50 crore. Shekhawat said that this is 'first of its kind' in the entire country. "The project is as per Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for utilisation of multiple resources," said Shekhawat adding that such projects will be carried out in other parts of the country too.
Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Pema Khandu said that the project is designed to provide drinking water to 17,480 people. It has been designed as an integrated project with the elements of drinking water, green energy and tourism component in it.
The project uses green energy-solar grid, SCADA automation system, pre-fabricated zinc alum storage tank and HDPE conduit for mains, sub-mains and distribution networking system. The project also includes amusement park including swimming pool, amphitheatre, fountains, and sit-outs.
Khandu said, "The project envisages promotion of tourism in the area which would enhance the living standard of the people and thus help in boosting the rural economy."
An official release has mentioned that in order to ensure the sustainability of the water project park, local villagers have agreed to share responsibility in the management of the assets in the park.
Khandu also launched the "Arunachal Jal Sankalp." It is a state government dedicated flagship programme to supplement the Jal Jeevan Mission and to sustain the drinking water systems.