AAP MLA Chhatar Vasava demands tehsil-level service stations and universal solar pump controls for farmers in Narmada, highlighting healthcare vacancies and lack of ambulances in Narmada and Tapi districts.
AAP MLA from Dediapada, Chhatar Vasava, has raised urgent demands to improve agricultural infrastructure and healthcare services in Narmada and surrounding districts. Speaking at a press conference in the Gujarat Assembly, Vasava highlighted critical issues faced by farmers and residents in Narmada, Chhota Udepur, and Tapi districts.
Demand for Universal Solar Pump Controls (USPC)
Chhatar Vasava emphasized that many villages in Narmada’s forested areas lack access to electricity for farming. Under the PM-KUSUM scheme, solar pumps are provided for irrigation, but their functionality can be greatly improved by installing Universal Solar Pump Controls (USPC). USPC enables storage of excess solar energy that can be used for domestic purposes, livestock care, and running other agricultural equipment. Vasava noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself showcased this technology during his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ program and observed its demonstration in Rajasthan. He urged the Gujarat government to implement USPC-equipped solar pumps for farmers immediately.
Need for Tehsil-Level Service Stations
Chhatar Vasava criticized the lack of local repair facilities for pump sets. Currently, farmers are only provided vendor contacts, and when a pump motor or starter malfunctions, they must send the unit back to the company. This results in delays of one to two weeks, often leading to crop losses. Vasava demanded that each vendor establish a service station at the tehsil level to ensure prompt repairs and uninterrupted irrigation.
He also pointed out irregularities in vendor practices, including extra charges for installation and deviation from prescribed installation depths, which compromise pump performance. Vasava urged the government to strictly enforce specifications and investigate complaints to safeguard farmers’ interests.
Healthcare Infrastructure Challenges
Chhatar Vasava highlighted severe deficiencies in healthcare infrastructure in Narmada and Chhota Udepur. Approximately 30% of positions in primary health centers, community health centers, and general hospitals remain vacant across all staff categories. While Rs 25,000 crore has been allocated for healthcare, he observed that benefits under PMJAY have not reached a significant portion of the local population, with only limited coverage in Narmada and Chhota Udepur.
Lack of Ambulances in Narmada and Tapi
Chhatar Vasava also exposed a shocking gap in emergency services. Despite Narmada housing the world’s tallest Statue of Unity and the Narmada Dam, there is not a single government ambulance available in Narmada and Tapi districts. In emergencies, residents are forced to transport the deceased using tractors, pickups, or even makeshift methods. He described this situation as “a stark reminder of governmental neglect and inadequate planning.”
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