Enhancing Water Management in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The DR. Syama Prasad Mookerjee National Institute of Water and Sanitation (SPM-NIWAS), in collaboration with the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD), is set to host a five-day residential training program. This initiative aims to improve the operation and management of rural water supply schemes in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Scheduled from February 24 to February 28, 2025, the program targets Junior Engineers (JEs) and Assistant Engineers (AEs) working in the region.
The training comes in response to the pressing challenges faced in water management, particularly due to inadequate operation and maintenance practices. By equipping engineers with essential skills and knowledge, the program seeks to address critical issues such as system inefficiencies, non-revenue water (NRW), energy consumption, and community engagement.
Importance of Training for Engineers
The Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Shri Chandra Bhushan Kumar, emphasized the significance of this training during the inaugural session. He highlighted that enhancing the skills of field engineers is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of water supply schemes. The Chief Secretary pointed out that while substantial work has been done on supply management, it is now essential to focus on demand-side management. This shift in focus will help create a more balanced approach to water resource management, ensuring that both supply and demand are effectively addressed.
Training programs like this one are vital for building the capacity of engineers. They provide the necessary tools and knowledge to tackle the unique challenges faced in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. By investing in the training of engineers, the government aims to improve the overall efficiency of water supply systems, ultimately benefiting the communities that rely on these services.
Course Content and Objectives
The training program is designed to enhance the operational and managerial capacities of JEs and AEs in managing water supply schemes effectively. The curriculum has been developed by a team of experts from SPM-NIWAS, in consultation with APWD officials. It covers a range of topics tailored to the specific needs of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Key topics include the challenges of water supply systems in the region, safe drinking water standards, and the operation and maintenance of surface water-based schemes. Participants will also learn about distribution management, practical strategies for reducing water loss, and community engagement in water management. Financial planning for the operation and management of rural water supply will also be a significant focus.
This comprehensive training aims to empower engineers with the knowledge and skills required to manage water supply schemes effectively. By addressing both technical and managerial aspects, the program seeks to foster a more sustainable approach to water resource management in the islands.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Plans
The training initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance water management across various states and Union Territories in India. The phased implementation of this training program reflects the government’s commitment to improving water supply systems nationwide.
Shri Priyatu Mandal, IAS, Director and Head of SPM-NIWAS, joined the inaugural session virtually. He reiterated the institute’s dedication to advancing knowledge and capacity in the water and sanitation sectors. The presence of other key officials, including Mr. Arjun Sharma, IAS, and Mr. Azharuddin Zahiruddin Quazi, IAS, underscores the collaborative efforts involved in this initiative.
As the program unfolds, it is expected to create a ripple effect, leading to improved water management practices across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. By investing in the training of engineers, the government aims to ensure that communities have access to reliable and sustainable water supply systems. This initiative marks a significant step toward addressing the challenges of water management in the region and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
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