Jal Jeevan Mission, solar high mast lights, Saur Sujala and solar power plants improve water supply, irrigation and power availability
Published on: January 02, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
Rajnandgaon district has witnessed significant progress in the renewable energy sector, with the Chhattisgarh Renewable Energy Development Agency (CREDA) implementing key schemes such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, Solar High Mast Lighting, Saur Sujala Yojana and Solar Power Plant projects. These initiatives are contributing to the expansion of basic facilities in both rural and urban areas, ensuring access to clean drinking water, irrigation support and uninterrupted power supply.
Over the past two years, the department has installed 11 solar pumps under drinking water schemes, 61 solar high mast lighting systems, 253 solar pumps for agricultural use and two solar power plants across the district. Officials said these efforts are not only improving essential services but are also bringing positive changes to the standard of living in rural areas.
Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, launched by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, the objective is to provide clean and safe drinking water to every rural household through individual tap connections. In Rajnandgaon, CREDA has installed water tanks with a capacity of 10,000 litres on 9-metre and 12-metre-high structures, powered by solar pumps. In the last two years alone, 11 solar pump systems have been installed to support drinking water supply under the mission.
The Solar High Mast Lighting Scheme has been implemented to improve public lighting at village centres, town squares, urban localities and other public places. These installations have gained popularity due to their aesthetic design and reliable, obstruction-free lighting. According to officials, improved illumination has enhanced night-time safety, reduced accidents and helped curb crime. In the past two years, 61 solar high mast systems have been installed in the district, enabling safer movement at night and encouraging social activities such as community meetings at village squares even after dark.
Under the Saur Sujala Yojana, CREDA is providing solar-powered irrigation facilities to farmers in areas with limited or no electricity access. Low-cost solar pump systems are being installed to support agricultural irrigation. In the last two years, a total of 253 solar pumps of 3 HP and 5 HP capacity have been installed in Rajnandgaon district. Beneficiary contributions have been kept minimal, with different slabs for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe, Other Backward Classes and general category farmers. Officials said the scheme has freed farmers from monthly electricity expenses and ensured year-round irrigation facilities.
Also read- https://www.btnewsindia.com/beekeeping-emerges-as-a-key-source-of-rural-livelihood-in-chhattisgarh/ https://www.btnewsindia.com/chhattisgarh-emerges-as-indias-growth-engine-gajendra-singh-shekhawat/
The Solar Power Plant Scheme focuses on ensuring reliable electricity supply in government buildings. Under this initiative, CREDA has installed solar power plants of capacities ranging from 2.4 kW to 6 kW. In the past two years, two such solar power plants have been commissioned in the district, reducing dependence on conventional power sources and promoting clean energy use in public infrastructure.
District officials stated that the integrated implementation of these renewable energy schemes is strengthening essential services while also supporting environmental sustainability. The administration expects further expansion of such projects in the coming years to reinforce energy security, rural development and quality of life across Rajnandgaon.
