Kerala's tap water coverage to surpass 85% soon

The Minister for Water Resources, Roshy Augustine, announced that by the end of the government's term, coverage of household tap connections in rural areas will exceed 85% under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). He spoke during a discussion on water resources in the Assembly. Since the launch of JJM, coverage in the state has increased from 25% to about 55%. Augustine responded to concerns from the Opposition about the slow progress of the program and Kerala's low ranking in its implementation nationwide. By early 2026, he stated that over 550 panchayats will achieve full coverage under JJM. Currently, 115 panchayats and nine Assembly constituencies have full tap connection coverage. The program's costs are shared equally between the State and the central government. Out of 70.77 lakh rural households in the state, 38.51 lakh currently have tap connections, according to the Jal Shakti Ministry. The Union government has recently extended the JJM deadline to 2028. Augustine also addressed concerns about roads being dug up for pipeline installation, assuring that funds have been allocated for their restoration.