The dream of 24-hour drinking water supply in Chandigarh will soon be realised as the French Embassy has approved a loan of ₹500 crore for this scheme. The lending process will also be completed soon and Chandigarh will be the first union territory with such a large grant coming in.
In September last year, a delegation from France visited Chandigarh to review the 24*7 water supply project. The delegation also visited parts of the city, including Sector 39 Water Works, Kajauli. After this, the delegation put a final seal on the loan.
France Development Agency is giving a loan of 406 crore, 70 lakh and 80 thousand to Chandigarh, while 97 crore, 10 lakh and 80 thousand rupees is being given as grant. The corporation will have to repay the loan money in 15 years, but the grant money will not be refunded. Also, the interest on the loan will start after five years.
According to officials, the officials plan to issue a tender by April. After the tender, the concerned company will have to operate and maintain it for 15 years. Officials believe that this project will reduce the consumption of drinking water in the city as people store water.
France Development Agency gives such loans in the world in view of the environment. The delegation said that if people participate in any scheme, then it will be considered more effective for the society. Smart city officials said that women will also be given employment opportunities under this scheme.
The delegation from France will again visit Chandigarh in March and overview the project.
