Beyond the Mountains: Jal Jeevan Mission in the Hills of Dima Hasao

Challenges, Transformation and Success

Implementing the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in the hilly district of Dima Hasao has been a journey filled with challenges as well as achievements. During my tenure in the Umrangso and Diyoungmukh areas, I have had the opportunity to closely observe the difficulties involved in providing safe and adequate drinking water to people living in remote hill villages.

The challenges

The geographical conditions of Dima Hasao are quite different from those of the plains. Steep slopes, rocky terrain, scattered villages and limited road connectivity often make the execution of water supply schemes difficult. In many locations, transporting construction materials, machinery and manpower itself becomes a major task. During the monsoon, heavy rainfall and landslides further affect the pace of construction and maintenance. Moreover, the considerable difference in elevation between water sources, reservoirs and household connections requires proper planning and technical attention.

A transformative impact

Despite these challenges, the impact of Jal Jeevan Mission on rural communities has been encouraging. Before the implementation of these schemes, people in several villages had to walk nearly 2–3 kilometres to collect drinking water from distant sources. This was particularly difficult for women and children, who had to spend a considerable amount of time fetching water for their daily needs.

A milestone: Teranlangso

Over the years, several water supply schemes have been successfully commissioned and are now providing drinking water to rural households. One such example is the water supply scheme at Teranlangso, a small village in the hill district, covering 21 households. The scheme has been successfully completed, handed over to the community and is now operational. Though small in terms of the number of beneficiaries, the scheme reflects the importance of reaching even the remotest habitations. For these 21 households, access to drinking water at their doorstep has brought meaningful relief from the difficulties of collecting water from distant sources. Such small but significant achievements truly reflect the spirit of Jal Jeevan Mission.

Collective effort for lasting change

This progress has been possible through the combined efforts of engineers, field staff, contractors, Jal Mitras and the active support of local communities. However, the real success of the Mission does not end with the completion of infrastructure. Regular monitoring, timely maintenance and community participation are equally important to ensure the continued functioning of these schemes.

My personal learning

My experience in the hills of Dima Hasao has taught me that implementing a water supply project in such difficult terrain requires not only technical knowledge but also patience, dedication and continuous field-level involvement.

Every functional tap connection in these remote villages is a step towards a better quality of life. Beyond the infrastructure, Jal Jeevan Mission is bringing convenience, dignity and hope to communities living beyond the mountains.

Fig: Field level implementation of Jal jeevan mission in Rural Dima Hasao