By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 6: The KHADC is slated to convene a meeting with traditional bodies like the Himas and Raids to deliberate on the rapid depletion of the catchment areas and water bodies within the jurisdiction of the council. The date for the meeting will be finalised soon.
KHADC Deputy CEM PN Syiem on Thursday said the council would impress upon the various Himas and Raids to protect the catchment areas and water bodies since several villages are facing water crisis during the dry season.
He said several villages which used to have surplus supply of potable water are now dealing with the problem of water crisis since the water sources and bodies have dried due to deforestation and impact of climate change.
He admitted that the major hindrance was that majority of the catchment areas fall under privately-owned land.
In addition to strict implementation of the Meghalaya Protection of Catchment Areas Act, 1990, the KHADC has also incorporates clauses in the council’s Forest Act for protection of the water bodies and catchment areas.
He also spoke about the problem of growing encroachment along the catchment areas and rivers.