Bareilly: A review meeting was held under the chairmanship of District Magistrate Avinash Singh to address rising incidents of theft affecting projects implemented under the Jal Jeevan Mission. The meeting took place at the Collectorate auditorium with senior administrative and police officials in attendance.
Rising Thefts Disrupting Water Supply
During the meeting, officials highlighted that theft of copper cables—used to connect solar panels—as well as the solar panels themselves, has been reported from several locations, including villages like Puranapur and Natthurampur. These incidents have adversely impacted operation and maintenance activities, leading to disruptions in water supply under the scheme.
Strict Measures Ordered
Taking serious note of the issue, the District Magistrate directed officials to install night-vision CCTV cameras in highly sensitive areas where repeated thefts have been reported. He also instructed that all security personnel deployed at project sites must undergo police verification.
Additionally, surprise inspections will be conducted regularly to ensure vigilance, and preference will be given to appointing local village watchmen to strengthen on-ground monitoring.
Police Action and FIRs
Officials informed that the accused involved in a recent theft at Manoona Dham have been apprehended. So far, around 15 FIRs have been registered in connection with thefts linked to Jal Jeevan Mission infrastructure.
Officials Present
The meeting was attended by senior officials including Superintendent of Police (City) Manush Pareek, Superintendent of Police (South) Mukesh Chandra Mishra, Executive Engineer of Jal Jeevan Mission Kumkum Gangwar, along with representatives of concerned agencies and other administrative officers.
The administration reiterated its commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure under the Jal Jeevan Mission to ensure uninterrupted water supply to rural households.
