SHILLONG : In a significant step toward strengthening rural water supply, the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department on Saturday formally handed over the implementation and maintenance of the Har Ghar Jal scheme to five villages under Mawpat C&RD Block, after achieving 100 percent household tap water coverage under the Jal Jeevan Mission.
The villages that have successfully achieved full utilisation of the scheme include Mawkasiang Umroh, Mawdiangdiang, Madanseisiej, Mawlong, and Diengiong. All households in these villages are now receiving functional tap water connections under the centrally sponsored Jal Jeevan Mission.
The formal handover programme was held at Mawdiangdiang in the presence of Meghalaya Minister Sosthenes Sohtun, who oversees the Community and Rural Development portfolio. Also present were Robert S. Nongbri, Chief Engineer of the PHE Department, Silvestar Phangbuh, Block Development Officer of Mawpat, along with local traditional heads (Sordars) and other officials.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Sohtun emphasized that while development and change are inevitable, it is equally important to protect and properly maintain water sources to ensure long-term sustainability. He urged the communities to take ownership of the schemes and safeguard the water resources so that the benefits can be preserved for future generations.
The handover marks a crucial milestone in community-led management of rural water infrastructure, aligning with the broader vision of the Jal Jeevan Mission to ensure safe and sustainable drinking water access for every household.