Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Jal Shakti Abhiyan team visits Chandigarh, acknowledges city's Water Conservation efforts
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, August 13, 2024: In a significant step towards enhancing the city's water conservation and management initiatives, Surbhi Jain, Joint Secretary (FM), Department of Economic Affairs and Chief Nodal Officer, Jal Shakti Abhiyan, along with Dr. Gajanan Ramteke, Scientist C, Central Ground Water Board, visited Chandigarh today for a detailed discussion with officials from the Municipal Corporation and Chandigarh Administration on pre-monsoon preparations.
During the visit, the Joint Secretary assessed Chandigarh's preparedness for the upcoming monsoon season and reviewed the progress of various water conservation and management projects. Municipal Corporation Chief Engineer, N.P. Sharma, alongside officials from the Municipal Corporation and Chandigarh Administration, presented a comprehensive overview of the city's multifaceted approach to water conservation to the Jal Shakti Abhiyan team. This included:
- Rain Water Harvesting Structures in government buildings and private houses built on plots of one kanal or more
- Amrut Sarovars and the use of Tertiary Treated (TT) water, including at the Golf Course.
- Efforts to close tubewells in critical areas to curb groundwater usage.
- Afforestation and soil and water conservation initiatives in the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Engagement of women's Self-Help Groups under the Amrut Mitra program.
The Joint Secretary expressed satisfaction with Chandigarh's efforts and emphasized the importance of continued focus on rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and efficient treated water utilization. The team also visited key locations across the city, including the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, the Dhanas and Khuda Jassu ponds, and various rainwater harvesting structures, to assess the progress of the ongoing initiatives.
Municipal Commissioner Anindita Mitra, IAS, remarked, "Chandigarh's water conservation efforts under the Jal Shakti Abhiyan exemplify the city's commitment to sustainable resource management. By harnessing the power of women's participation, we are not only addressing water scarcity but also empowering local communities to be active stewards of their natural resources."
The Secretary's visit and the ongoing initiatives underscore Chandigarh's unwavering dedication to ensuring the city's water security for the future.