Neer Nirmal Project Closed in March 2020: Bidyut Mahato

Govindpur Section Completed Between 2014 and 2019 with Government Support

Key Points:

• Contract Termination Occurred in 2019 Before Project Closure
• Initial Budget Was Rs 206.63 Crore Before Revision
• Jal Jeevan Mission Received Transferred Work in 2021

JAMSHEDPUR – The Neer Nirmal Project was shut down in March 2020 after contract termination in 2019, while the Govindpur section had already been completed with central and state government backing.

The Neer Nirmal Project was closed in March 2020. Its contract was terminated in 2019. The Govindpur portion of the project reached completion between 2014 and 2019. It received backing from central and state governments.

Project costs were initially sanctioned at Rs 206.63 crore. Later, the budget was revised to Rs 237.21 crore. Remaining work was transferred to the Jal Jeevan Mission in 2021. An approved budget of Rs 107.19 crore was allocated.

Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti, V. Somanna, clarified implementation responsibility. He stated that drinking water schemes fall under state government jurisdiction. Meanwhile, the Centre provides financial and technical assistance. The Jal Jeevan Mission has been extended until 2028. The Centre committed to offering support under mission guidelines.

Moreover, the state government reported that around 60% of the leftover tasks have been completed. However, any additional costs must be borne by the state. Progress has now stalled completely. Funding from both central and state sources remains unavailable for 2025–26.

The Bagbera section remains unfinished after contract termination. In contrast, rural Bagbera residents continue struggling for drinking water access. Jamshedpur MP Bidyut Baran Mahato flagged these delays in Parliament. On the other hand, effective execution depends on timely resource allocation from state authorities. Coordination between state and central agencies is essential for project completion.