SHILLONG: The State government has taken several steps for protection of catchment areas, said Deputy Chief Minister in charge PHE Prof RC Laloo.
“Every department is making efforts to protect the catchment areas. We are working on convergence mode,” Prof Laloo said while replying to a resolution moved by South Tura legislator John Leslee Sangma (independent) on the 5th day of the Winter Session of the State Assembly on Thursday.
He also said that government on its own cannot protect the catchment areas without the active participation of people.
“The people should stop all unwanted activities which are posing a threat to the catchment areas,” Prof Laloo said.
“We also understand the importance of recharging the catchment areas to protect and preserve and water sources,” Prof Laloo said.
On the issue of water scarcity in Tura, the minister said that the Government would augment the Tura Phase I and Phase III (water supply scheme) to improve the supply of water. Earlier, while moving the resolution, Sangma raised the issue of frequent water scarcity in Tura.