SHILLONG, AUG 13: Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti and Tribal Affairs Bishweswar Tudu on Saturday expressed disappointment over the manner in which the various central schemes are being implemented in Meghalaya.

“In pen and paper I am happy but practically I am not happy,” Tudu told reporters at a news conference held at the BJP state office here.

He said the state on an average was able to achieve only 30-40 percent in all the central schemes. “We have suggested to the state to achieve what we have given the period (for completion of such schemes),” Tudu added.

The MoS was on a two-day visit to the state capital for reviewing the implementation of the various central schemes in Meghalaya.

On Friday, Tudu also walked out of the meeting after the state government officials were found not ready with papers for reviewing the Jal Jeevan Mission and other schemes.

The MoS has also directed the state administration to take leaders of all political parties into consideration.

“This is because there are allegations that only proposals of ruling parties elected representatives (were being considered) but not those from other parties. Therefore, it has also been directed, suggested and advised to take them (other parties) into consideration,” he stated.

On the status of the Ekalavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) sanctioned by the tribal ministry, Tudu said there are those which are under construction and yet to be completed and there are others where tendering process is not completed. “We have asked them to complete the EMRS before 2024,” he said adding “This is the duty of the state government to start (the work) immediately. When I reach Delhi I will talk to ensure the work starts immediately otherwise if the agency to which the work is awarded it will be withdrawn and other agency will be given.”

He further stressed on the need to rejuvenate the water bodies to address the problem of water crisis. “The state government has identified many water bodies for rejuvenation so that the water capacity can be increased.”

Tudu also visited the water treatment plant at Mawphlang and said he found it is better as so far there has been no complaint that people are not getting pure or sufficient water supply to their respective households.

On the delay to complete the Greater Shillong Water Supply Scheme (GSWSS) Phase-III, the MoS admitted that he also witnessed the blue pipes that are lying along the roadside while travelling towards Mawphlang and said if the project is not completed within the stipulated period, action will be taken on this regard.

“I have already told them…if they don’t complete they will be penalized,” he said.