Dabugaon: A mega drinking water project is underway in 66 villages of 12 gram panchayats in Dabugaon block, benefiting 62,251 residents, and in 68 villages of 12 gram panchayats in Jharigam block, reaching 75,744 people. The project is being executed by L&T (Larsen & Toubro). However, serious concerns have been raised regarding the transparency and execution quality of this mega project.
For laying pipelines, several cashew trees — cultivated for years by local farmers — have been cut down, while water pipelines are being laid along main village roads. In many areas, the pipelines are being laid in a zigzag manner, casting doubts about the long-term sustainability and durability of the project.
According to available information, construction of the mega drinking water project began in May 2023 at Phulbhatta village in Dabugaon block by L&T. With an estimated cost of ₹248.16 crore, the project was scheduled to run from 08/05/2023 to 07/05/2025. However, even though a significant portion of the timeline has passed, only about 50% of the work has been completed so far.
During the pipeline-laying process, more than 30 cashew trees belonging to farmers from Badolma and Junapani panchayats were cut down. Similarly, in Mendara village under Borigaon panchayat, pipelines have been laid along the main road, which could obstruct future drainage and road widening activities.
Additionally, a JCB machine (OD-23H-9353) with expired fitness and insurance is reportedly being used for the project. Pipes are also being transported overloaded through narrow village roads. While the successful implementation of this mega drinking water project could benefit over one lakh residents of Dabugaon and Jharigam blocks, the slow pace of work by L&T and the questionable quality of execution have raised serious concerns among the locals.
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