Meghalaya’s Water Crisis Reaches Critical Levels: 792 Critical Water Sources at Risk of Drying Up
The North Eastern state of Meghalaya is grappling with a severe water crisis, with a recent study identifying 792 critical water sources, some beyond rejuvenation. Despite projects worth Rs 8,000 crore being implemented, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma expressed concern over the grave situation. The crisis has escalated, and the state government has set up a climate council, with the Chief Minister at the helm, to address the issue.
The state’s soil and water conservation department has planned a Rs 32-crore project to rejuvenate 67 springsheds, which will help bring back life to these water sources. The project is underway, and the progress is a testament to the commitment of the government. The Mahatma Gandhi National Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) has also contributed to the development of 1,601 springsheds over the past five years, with each one being a success story in itself.
Under the Jal Jeevan Mission, the government is working to provide piped water connections to households. The success of this mission is evident, with the number of connections increasing from less than 5,000 in 2018 to nearly 5 lakh now. However, the state is faced with a larger challenge of managing its vast water resources. Only about 60 billion cubic liters of water flow through the state, with half going to Bangladesh and the other half to Assam. The remaining water is stored and managed through a complex system.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the state’s water policy is in place, with projects worth over Rs 4,000 crore. He also highlighted the importance of water management, which is a continuous process that requires a long-term approach. The state is among the few to have implemented a water policy, and the government is working to address the crisis on a war footing. The CM reiterated that the state is proud of its 13,000 volunteers, who have been trained to monitor the level of water in the springs and ensure their maintenance.
The opposition, represented by Voice of the People Party MLA Arden Basaiawmoit, urged the government to avoid non-forest activities in forest areas. While the situation is concerning, the government’s efforts to address the crisis are a step in the right direction. The people of Meghalaya hope that the state’s initiatives will successfully mitigate the water crisis and ensure a sustainable future.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/meghalaya/story/meghalaya-battles-water-crisis-all-eyes-on-states-climate-council-1178727-2025-03-04?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2025-03-04 08:45:00
