Mukul launches Springshed devp initiative to tap water
SHILLONG: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma launched the state-level Springshed Development Initiative programme on Tuesday at Aminda Rangsagre under Gambegre Community and Rural Development Block in West Garo Hills. The programme will help in mapping, monitoring and recharging all water bodies and utilising these resources in ensuring all-round development of the State.
Aminda Rangsagre was in the news for achieving Nirmal Gram Puraskar in 2011 and also for its wood carvings attracting people.
While stating that the encroachment of catchment areas is one of the main causes for drying up of water sources, Sangma said the most important intervention of Springshed Initiative will help in addressing the concerns.
The chief minister said water problem is everywhere and is perhaps the effect of climate change and ecological imbalance.
“These have necessitated congregating and taking resolution for climate change by creating sustainable development to ensure sustainable ecology for the people,” he said.
On the improvement of agricultural sector in the region, the chief minister urged the concerned departments to enlighten the people of the area to adopt scientific approach and practise multiple cropping to protect and manage the quality of soil for better production.
Sharing his views about the progress of the tourism industry in different parts of the State like Cherrapunjee and Mawlynnong, he highlighted the vast potentialities and job opportunities the tourism industry provides as well as improves the economic status for the people.
Soil and Water Conservation Minister, Ronnie V Lyngdoh, said that launching of the Springshed Initiative project is being done at the right time.
He said in the past, spring water was full since there was less population but now with the increase in population spring water has either reduced drastically or polluted or have dried up completely.
He urged the people of the region to make serious effort to protect and preserve the environment or face the adverse effect of nature in the years to come.
Principal Chief Conservator of Forest (PCCF) and Deputy CEO of Meghalaya Basin Development Authority, S. Ashutosh, said it is a statewide initiative for rejuvenating water sources and catchment areas by creating sustainable livelihood for the people of the State. He said the survey conducted by the department on climate change in the recent years has revealed rapid depletion of groundwater level and water sources everywhere.
“The main objective of this initiative is to ensure water security by mainstreaming scientific approaches to sustainable spring protection and management and also for rejuvenating the impaired springs, he added.
Earlier in the function, the chief minister unveiled a plaque and also released a booklet on Springshed Development Initiative Programme.
The two-day Farmers Agriculture and Rural Products Expo (FARPE) was also inaugurated by the chief guest after launching the Springshed Development Initiative.
FARPE is an innovative and interactive “Mini Industrial Exhibition cum Buyers Sellers Meet” that serves as a platform to display local agricultural and rural products, exchange skills and expertise among the producers and entrepreneurs.