2024-04-02T04:39:58
Pond Rejuvenation: Why It Matters
India’s water woes are a pressing concern, and the solution lies in the rejuvenation of village ponds.
Let’s delve into why this matters:
Water Crisis in India:
India faces a serious water crisis. Rivers and water bodies are drying up, and dependence on groundwater has reached unsustainable levels.
A significant number of Indians lack access to safe drinking water.
Deterioration of Water Bodies:
The deterioration of water bodies exacerbates the crisis. Ponds, once vital for water security in villages, have suffered neglect and encroachment.
Years of misuse have led to acute water shortages and rapid groundwater depletion.
Challenges and Opportunities:
Dr. VC Goyal, an expert in the field, has spearheaded pond rejuvenation projects in Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.
Ponds are filled with waste, including domestic wastewater and solid debris. Stagnant water breeds diseases and contaminates local aquifers.
Encroachment by local land mafias further compounds the problem.
NIH’s Initiatives:
The National Institute of Hydrology (NIH) has undertaken significant projects:
Rejuvenated a pond near Roorkee using a “constructed wetland” approach.
Awarded projects for rejuvenating 21 village ponds in Uttar Pradesh.
Enhanced storage capacity by three to four times.
Advocacy and awareness play a crucial role in sustaining these efforts.
Long-Term Sustainability:
District administrations advise local bodies to develop and maintain rejuvenated ponds using MNREGA funds.
By protecting water bodies, communities contribute to long-term sustainability.
Have a question? Ask here!
Required fields are marked *