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SOURCE: AFI

A recent audit conducted by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, covering the fiscal years 2018-19 to 2020-21, has shed light on significant water supply issues within military installations managed by Garrison Engineers (GEs). The findings indicate a systemic failure in ensuring adequate water provision to defence personnel, which could impact operational readiness and welfare.

According to the CAG report, an astonishing 15 out of the 20 Garrison Engineers (GEs) under scrutiny provided less water than what was officially authorized to military stations across the country. The discrepancies in water supply were stark, with deficits ranging from a relatively manageable 10.13% to a concerning 62.97% below the prescribed levels. This shortfall raises questions about the maintenance of health, hygiene, and operational efficiency within these critical defence areas.

The audit further highlighted the inefficacy of agreements made with external water utilities as a contingency measure. These agreements, meant to augment the water supply at military bases, fell short of expectations. It was noted that 12 out of 13 GEs were not able to secure the volumes of water stipulated in their contracts. This failure points to deeper issues in contract management, quality assurance, and perhaps, the reliability of external water supply sources.

Water is not merely a utility but a strategic resource in military settings, essential for everything from basic human needs to operational capabilities like fire suppression and sanitation. The chronic under-supply documented by the CAG could compromise the health and morale of soldiers, potentially affecting their combat readiness and the overall defence posture of the nation.

The report also flagged a considerable financial loss due to water leakage, amounting to an estimated ?11.53 crore over the three-year period. This wastage not only represents a direct fiscal loss but also an indirect cost in terms of the opportunity to use this water for critical needs.

The lapses identified in the audit include:

  • Shortfall in Water Supply: The significant gap between the authorized supply and what was actually delivered.
  • Ineffective External Agreements: Contracts with water utilities not yielding the expected results.
  • Water Losses: High levels of water wastage due to infrastructure inefficiencies.

These findings underscore the need for urgent action to overhaul water management practices within the military. Recommendations from the CAG include better monitoring of water supply agreements, investment in infrastructure to prevent leakages, and exploring sustainable water solutions like rainwater harvesting and recycling at military installations.

The Ministry of Defence has yet to respond officially to these findings, but there is an expectation that steps will be taken to address these deficiencies. The audit not only serves as a critique but also as a wake-up call for implementing more robust, accountable, and sustainable water management strategies in defence establishments across India.