GIS Mapping for Water Supply

GS Paper II – Governance

Context 

The Ministry of Jal Shakti has accelerated the implementation of GIS-based mapping of water supply systems under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). This initiative aims to ensure real-time monitoring, transparency, and efficiency in the delivery of functional household tap connections (FHTCs) across rural India.

What is GIS Mapping in Water Supply?

Geographic Information System (GIS) is a spatial technology used to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, and visualize geographical data. In water supply systems, GIS mapping helps in:

• Identifying source locations

• Mapping pipeline networks

• Tracking leakages or disruptions

• Monitoring water quality and availability

Key Features of GIS Integration in Water Supply:

• Real-time data on water infrastructure

• Mapping of all water sources (wells, tanks, reservoirs)

• Decision-making support for planning and maintenance

• Predictive analysis for drought-prone or water-stressed areas

Government Initiatives:

• Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Emphasizes use of digital technologies, including GIS, IoT, and remote sensing.

• National Hydrology Project (NHP): Implements GIS and satellite data for better water resource management.

• Digital India push: Enhances the role of GIS in governance.

Benefits:

1. Transparency in fund utilization and project implementation.

2. Effective grievance redressal through public dashboards.

3. Resource optimization by reducing water loss.

4. Equity in access by targeting underserved areas.

Challenges:

• Data accuracy and availability at grassroots level.

• Capacity building in rural governance for GIS usage.

• High initial cost of infrastructure and training.

• Integration with legacy systems.