Six departments issue a notice to strengthen the operation and maintenance of rural water supply projects

On the 24th, reporters learned from the Ministry of Water Resources that the Ministry of Water Resources and five other departments recently jointly issued a notice on “Further Strengthening the Management and Maintenance of Rural Water Supply Projects.” This notice focuses on building a standardized system that covers the entire chain from water source to tap, deploying key tasks for management and maintenance in the current and future periods, and enhancing the capacity for rural water supply security and service levels. The notice outlines five key tasks, including strengthening the assurance of water quantity and quality in rural water supply, strengthening emergency water supply for projects, steadily advancing the reform of rural water supply pricing, accelerating the unified management of rural water supply within counties, and implementing supportive policies. Specific requirements include strengthening water resource management and source protection, scientifically arranging emergency backup water sources, categorizing pricing for rural non-residential and residential water use according to different principles, expediting professional management in areas not yet unified at the county level, and ensuring that various levels of financial support are provided for the operation and maintenance of rural water supply projects as required. A relevant official from the Ministry of Water Resources stated that in the next step, they will work with relevant departments to guide localities in effectively implementing the notice, ensuring that projects are managed with personnel, funding, and established systems, built well, managed properly, and provide long-term benefits, thereby enhancing rural residents’ sense of water accessibility, happiness, and safety. (Xinhua News Agency)