Agnimitra Paul inspects potable water projects in Darjeeling

Ms Paul, the minister for women and child development and social welfare, accompanied by local MP Raju Bista, inspected drinking water supply projects being implemented in the Mirik Municipality area under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 scheme, which is being funded by the Central government.

Projects worth more than Rs 170 crore are currently underway to ensure 100 per cent household drinking water coverage in Mirik. Funds have also been earmarked for the rejuvenation and desiltation of the iconic Sumendu Lake, a move expected to improve water quality, enhance the lake’s aesthetic appeal and boost tourism in the region.

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Ms Paul announced that, in addition to the existing sewerage treatment facility, two more Sewerage Treatment Plants (STPs) would be installed in Mirik within the next three months.

“Once operational, all household sewage generated in Mirik will be treated before being released. This will significantly improve the health of the lake and the overall environment,” she said.

The minister also directed officials to prepare projects aimed at transforming Mirik into a model Himalayan hill town equipped with modern infrastructure while preserving its natural beauty and ecological balance.

Later, Ms Paul chaired an administrative review meeting covering the Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong and Mirik hill regions.

She stressed the need for strengthening women’s empowerment initiatives, intensifying efforts to combat human trafficking and dismantle trafficking networks operating in the region. The minister also emphasised the importance of ensuring that welfare benefits reach all eligible beneficiaries without delay.

Highlighting the challenges of waste disposal in the hills, Ms Paul said sustainable solid waste management systems would be prioritised in all hill municipalities. She added that Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for Sewerage Treatment Plants would soon be prepared for the four hill municipalities.

Addressing the persistent traffic congestion in Darjeeling town, the minister said the proposed Darjeeling–Lebong–Rangeyrung–Tin Mile Circular Road project and the alternative highway to Darjeeling project would be expedited.

The review meeting also discussed the implementation of AMRUT projects across the hill municipalities.

Earlier in the day, Ms Paul inspected renovation works at the North and South Sinchel Lakes, which are being upgraded under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme with Central Government funding.