Parliamentary Panel Urges Better Fund Utilization for Water Projects Amidst 40% Unspent Allocations

Parliamentary Panel Raises Concerns Over Water Project Fund Utilization

NEW DELHI: A parliamentary panel has expressed serious concerns regarding the poor utilization of funds allocated for various water projects. The Standing Committee on Water Resources reported that only about 58% of the revised allocation of ₹21,640.88 crore for the fiscal year 2024-25 was utilized by the end of December 2024. This highlights a staggering 40% of allocated funds remaining unspent, prompting the committee to urge the Jal Shakti Ministry to enhance its monitoring and implementation mechanisms.

Budget Allocations and Concerns

The report, tabled in Parliament, pointed out significant delays in fund disbursal and project execution. The ministry attributed the low spending rates to seasonal expenditure patterns, noting that spending typically increases after the monsoon. Despite these challenges, the total budget for the department has seen an increase to ₹25,276.83 crore for 2025-26, marking an 18.54% rise from the previous year.

Key allocations include a 56.61% increase to ₹509 crore for groundwater management, reflecting the government’s commitment to improve groundwater mapping and management through the National Aquifer Mapping and Management Programme (NAQUIM). However, some projects faced budget cuts, including a drastic 98% reduction in the National Hydrology Project (NHP).

Focus on Rainwater Harvesting

The committee emphasized the need for greater focus on rainwater harvesting, suggesting that while the Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain campaign has made strides, no direct financial support has been provided to states for rainwater harvesting initiatives. They recommended increased funding and incentives to accelerate the construction and repair of rainwater harvesting structures.

Conclusion

As the government continues to allocate substantial funds for water resource management, it is crucial to address these utilization issues to ensure effective project implementation. For those looking for exclusive deals and offers related to home improvement and water conservation, visit Looffers.com for the latest promotions.