ISLAMABAD, April 21: A high-level meeting was informed here on Friday that a “special plan” had been finalised to involve provincial governments, districts governments and the private sector in providing electricity and safe drinking water to every citizen.

President General Pervez Musharraf, who chaired the meeting, was informed that the electrification process was on track and 13,000 villages, both large and small, would be electrified in 2006.

He instructed the concerned authorities to accelerate the setting up of drinking water purification plants across the country as it would result in the prevention of a number of water-borne diseases, as well as reduce the cost of health care and provide a healthy environment.

During the meeting, also attended by Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, Minister for Water and Power Liaqat Jatoi and Wapda chairman Tariq Hameed briefed the participants about the implementation status of rural electrification in the country.

The president called for steps to develop a realistic framework for community participation to ensure their effective role in scheme identification and implementation. In this regard, he also called for appropriate legislation and adequate enforcement.

The meeting was told that in line with the president’s directive emphasis was being given on removing existing inequalities in the provision of safe drinking water and effectively addressing the needs of more vulnerable and poor sections of the society.

Likewise, incorporation of NGOs, community organisations and particularly women in the project has been ensured as their participation would play a crucial role in the realisation of the government’s objectives.