Banks review canal-based water supply project
A high-level delegation from the World Bank (WB) and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is on a three-day visit to Ludhiana to review the progress of the canal-based water supply project jointly funded by the two international institutions.
The team, led by Rosanna Nitti (Task Team Leader, WB) and Ankur Aggarwal (Task Team Leader, AIIB), organised a series of review meetings with officials from the municipal corporation and the water utility company. They also carried out site inspections to assess ground-level implementation of the project.
One of the key stops on their visit was the site at Village Bilga, near Sahnewal, where a world-class water treatment plant (WTP) is under construction. The experts issued necessary directions to speed up the work to ensure timely completion of the facility.
The visiting delegation also included BKD Raja (Safeguards), Environment Specialist Charu Jain, Environment Associate Eya Cruz, Consultant Navika Chaudhary and other team members. They were accompanied by MC Joint Commissioner Ankur Mahindroo, Chief Engineer Ravinder Garg, Superintending Engineer (Projects) Parul Goyal and other civic officials.
During their field visits, the WB and AIIB team inspected several construction sites where overhead service reservoirs (OHSRs) are being developed as part of the water supply project. Detailed discussions were held on the environmental impact of the construction activities, along with safety measures and welfare initiatives for labourers and nearby residents.
Municipal Commissioner Aaditya Dachalwal said directions have already been issued to the contractors to accelerate the pace of work, ensuring the project remains on track for completion within the stipulated timeframe. He added the visiting delegation was briefed thoroughly on the progress and expressed satisfaction with the current pace and quality of work.
The canal-based water supply project is a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at providing sustainable and treated surface water to the city, reducing dependence on depleting groundwater resources and enhancing public health standards.
