Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu today released 'Water Laws of Himachal Pradesh', a first ever comprehensive compendium prepared by the Jal Shakti Vibhag of Himachal Pradesh that brings together all major acts, rules, policy notifications, technical manuals and administrative circulars governing the functioning of the department in a single volume.
The compendium has been edited and compiled by Principal Secretary, Jal Shakti Vibhag Dr. Abhishek Jain, Chief Engineer, Shimla Zone Er. Mukesh Hira and Superintending Engineer, Shimla Zone Er. Vijay Kashyap. The Chief Minister said that the publication would serve as an authoritative reference document for officers, engineers, contractors and citizens while enhancing transparency, accountability and efficiency in the delivery of water supply, sewerage and irrigation services across the State.
Sh. Sukhu appreciated the efforts of the Jal Shakti Vibhag for compilation of legal, technical and administrative provisions that have evolved over several decades. Thhe compendium would significantly strengthen institutional references and facilitate informed decision-making, particularly for officers posted in different divisions, circles and zones.
He said that Himachal Pradesh has emerged as one of the leading States in the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission, achieving 99.9 percent households with tap water connection. The State's commitment to sustainable water management and public service delivery was further recognised with the National Water Award in 2026.
The compendium has been organised into thematic sections covering Acts and policies, operational guidelines, water charges, financial delegations, tendering procedures, legal matters, litigation, water quality testing and other important administrative subjects. The publication will provide a single-window reference for understanding the department's legal and procedural framework.
Sh. Sukhu said that the compendium would help officers take informed field decisions and ensure compliance with statutory provisions. Contractors would benefit from greater clarity regarding enlistment norms, tendering procedures and financial powers of sanctioning authorities, while citizens would have easier access to information relating to water tariffs, service guarantees under the Himachal Pradesh Public Services Guarantee Act, 2011 and accredited water quality testing laboratories.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would contribute towards strengthening good governance, improving service delivery and promoting greater transparency in the functioning of the Jal Shakti Vibhag. Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, Principal Secretary Jal Shakti Vibhag Dr. Abhishek Jain, Secretary to Chief Minister Ashish Singhmar and other senior officers were also present on the occasion.