Women, NGOs, schools to play key role in water & sanitation committees
MAPUSA
In a move aimed at strengthening the operation and maintenance of drinking water supply systems, the State government has constituted Water and Sanitation Committees (WSCs) across all panchayats, municipalities and the Corporation of the City of Panaji.
The committees will undertake a range of activities outlined in the State’s policy on operation and maintenance for drinking water supply.
Each Water and Sanitation Committee will be headed by the Mayor, Chairperson, or Sarpanch of the respective local body. The committee will include elected representatives, technical officials and members from the community to ensure inclusive participation.
Key members will comprise a woman panchayat member or councillor, a local health worker and a representative from the education sector such as a principal or teacher.
In addition, one representative from a local community-based organisation (CBO) or NGO and members representing SC, ST and OBC communities will be part of the panel.
Technical oversight will be provided by officials from the Directorate of Panchayat or the Department of Municipal Administration, along with a Technical Assistant or Junior Engineer from the Drinking Water Department.
To strengthen water quality monitoring, two women members from each village or municipality will be included to conduct field testing using Field Test Kits (FTKs). The Commissioner, Chief Officer, or village Panchayat Secretary will function as the Member Secretary of the committee.
Members such as elected representatives, teachers, NGO representatives and community members will be selected through gram sabhas or council meetings, while technical and health officials will be nominated by the respective departments.
The committees will function under the administrative control of the Commissioner, Chief Officer or Block Development Officer.
They are also empowered to invite additional members as special invitees based on requirements.
A government notification further encourages committees to collaborate with educational institutions and NSS units for activities related to water, health and sanitation.
The initiative is expected to decentralise water management and enhance community participation in maintaining drinking water infrastructure across the State.
