Lakshadweep - Functionality Assessment 2024

"This state report presents the comprehensive findings of the third functionality assessment of household tap connections under the Jal Jeevan Mission for Lakshadweep, conducted from July to October 2024. The assessment was carried out by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation under the Ministry of Jal Shakti to evaluate the functionality and efficacy of piped water supply connections to rural households in the state. The survey covered Har Ghar Jal villages and households across rural districts in Lakshadweep, following a cross-sectional research design with population proportionate to size sampling methodology. The assessment focused exclusively on villages with piped water schemes that have 20 or more household tap connections. The survey was conducted during the monsoon period, which presented unique challenges including floods and waterlogging in several areas. Key findings for Lakshadweep include availability and functionality of tap water connections, regularity and adequacy of water supply, water quality assessment at household and source levels, and user satisfaction metrics. The report provides detailed analysis of water supply at village level including availability and functionality of piped water schemes, operation and maintenance aspects, and management of water service delivery. The assessment covers household level practices for water safety, availability of Village Water and Sanitation Committees, availability of skilled manpower for operation and maintenance, and water disinfection mechanisms. Special focus is given to quality of water supplied at public institutions including schools, anganwadi centres, and health facilities. The report also evaluates the functionality status of household tap connections, including working connections, regularity of supply, adequate quantity of water (minimum 55 liters per capita per day), and quality compliance with prescribed standards. Findings are presented with comparison to national averages and previous assessment rounds. Challenges identified include infrastructure issues, maintenance requirements, and water quality concerns. This comprehensive assessment provides valuable insights for policy formulation and program implementation to ensure sustainable access to safe drinking water for all rural households in Lakshadweep under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Recommendations focus on improving infrastructure maintenance, enhancing water quality monitoring, and strengthening community management systems."