Mangaluru: District In-charge Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao issued a stern warning on Friday, cautioning officials against compromising on quality and undertaking unscientific projects during the execution of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).

Presiding over the tri-monthly Karnataka Development Programmes (KDP) meeting at Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayat Hall, Minister Dinesh directed officials to provide an outcome analysis report on the water supply connections granted and the number of habitations benefiting from completed works under the scheme within a week.

Emphasizing his commitment to quality, the minister declared that surprise visits would be conducted to inspect the works' quality and assess the physical progress, with severe consequences for any lapses.

Dr. Anand, Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer (CEO), reported that in the first phase, all 458 works had been concluded, providing 53,194 Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) at a cost of Rs 125.88 crore. The second phase witnessed the initiation of 134 works, with 32 completed, while in the third phase, 108 works were initiated, and 11 were completed, leaving 97 works in progress.

CEO Dr. Anand also highlighted the directive to gram panchayats (GPs) to solicit expressions of interest for water supply via tankers during peak summer. Addressing past water shortages in 16 gram panchayats a year ago, GPs were tasked with identifying borewells for water supply. Additionally, a committee under the assistant commissioner was established to oversee the integrated management of water stored in all check dams within the district.

Regarding the 447 vented dams under the Minor Irrigation department, an official reported that 80% of them had wooden planks fixed, with a pending proposal of Rs 297 lakh for their replacement awaiting approval. The official also acknowledged the aging condition of many wooden planks, emphasizing the need for prompt replacement.