'Sangam Abhiyan' to tackle declining groundwater

MAHASAMUND,CG(INDIA): Chhattisgarh’s Rural Development Department has started the “Sangam Abhiyan” to tackle the issue of declining groundwater levels and improve water availability across the state. The campaign aims to involve local people in a joint effort along with elected representatives, women's groups, panchayat staff, and various departments to conserve and improve groundwater in rural areas.

The shortage of water for drinking, farming, and daily use has become a serious concern in villages. To address it, a GIS-based water harvesting and livelihood improvement plan will be developed for every gram panchayat. These plans will be included in the broader Gram Panchayat Development Scheme.

As part of the campaign, on April 24, the current groundwater level of each gram panchayat will be displayed on the walls of panchayat buildings. Additionally, the water levels of open wells will be recorded twice a year using the Jaldoot app, and the information will be uploaded for tracking purposes.

To support groundwater recharge, the campaign will make use of existing schemes like 'Catch the Rain', 'Watershed', and 'Mahatma Gandhi NREGA'. Construction of structures such as recharge pits, sand filters, loose boulder check dams, contour trenches, Amrit lakes, and tree plantation projects will be given importance. Rainwater harvesting will also be promoted in government offices and village homes.

The campaign encourages communities, through gram sabhas, to work toward creating water-rich villages. With strong public involvement, this initiative is expected to make a real difference in addressing the water crisis in rural areas.