Chhattisgarh Hosts International Water Conference to Showcase Jal-Jagar Success

Raipur, Chhattisgarh – The Chhattisgarh government is organizing a two-day ‘International Water Conference’ on October 5 and 6 at the Ravishankar reservoir (Gangrel Dam) in Dhamtari district. This event aims to highlight the district’s progress in water conservation through the ‘Jal-Jagar’ initiative.

Focus on Farmers and Community Participation

The conference will emphasize the contributions of farmers who have adopted crop diversification, leading to soil rejuvenation and effective water conservation. Discussions will be held under the theme ‘Thoughts on Water, Support of the World,’ involving grassroots communities.

Cultural Activities and Competitions

The event will feature cultural activities, a ‘Junk to Jugaad’ competition, ‘Rangoli’ contests, and will conclude with a Rudrabhishek ceremony using water from 108 Amrit Sarovars.

Chief Minister’s Vision

Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the ‘Jal-Jagar’ campaign has been a powerful approach to tackle the water crisis. The Chief Minister has encouraged public participation to witness the district’s transformation.

National Water Mission Alignment

The campaign aligns with the National Water Mission’s ‘Catch The Rain, Where It Falls’ programme, promoting water harvesting systems and shared responsibility in water conservation.

Groundwater Depletion Response

Following a 2021 survey identifying Dhamtari as vulnerable to groundwater depletion, the ‘Jal-Jagar’ campaign was launched to increase groundwater levels and ensure sustainable water management.

Community and Environmental Initiatives

The campaign has led to new water streams, tree planting initiatives, and the involvement of women under the theme ‘Naari Shakti Se Jal Shakti’ (Empowering Women for Water Empowerment). Community members have been trained in water conservation techniques, and rainwater harvesting systems have been promoted.

Jal Shakti Kendras and Collaborations

Jal Shakti Kendras have been set up in each block, educating community members on water management. The administration collaborated with environmentalist Neeraj Wankhede to train public representatives and farmers.

Amrit Sarovars and Cleanliness Drives

121 ponds, known as Amrit Sarovars, were created, and 35 truckloads of plastic waste were removed during the Gangrel Dam excavation, emphasizing cleanliness around water bodies.

Promotion and Awareness

The campaign has been promoted through a mascot named ‘Piku’ and animated films. Posters, caps, T-shirts, and other materials were distributed to spread the message and encourage public participation.

Environmental Balance and Community Participation

The Chhattisgarh CM stressed the importance of environmental balance through green cover preservation and water conservation. Efforts included water recharge programmes, pond renovations, and rainwater harvesting initiatives.

Geo-Tagging and Scientific Planning

All water sources were identified and digitally mapped, and plans for water conservation were developed based on scientific principles. Large-scale tree planting and pond cleaning drives were conducted with community participation.

Positive Outcomes

Dhamtari Collector Namrata Gandhi noted a consistent increase in water levels, reflecting positive shifts in crop cycles and water conservation initiatives. This success is attributed to the effective implementation of the ‘Jal-Jagar’ initiative.