By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, April 30: PHE Minister Marcuise N. Marak on Thursday stated that the government is adopting long-term ecological measures, including afforestation and rainwater retention, to address the depletion of water sources across the state.
Acknowledging that several streams have shown signs of drying up, the minister said rejuvenation efforts are underway but cautioned that these interventions will not yield immediate results. “Rejuvenation of streams and rivers is not a short-term measure,” he said.
To combat the crisis, the government is focusing on planting trees in catchment areas and constructing trenches to trap rainwater. These trenches encourage groundwater recharge, gradually restoring soil moisture and helping to revive natural water sources.
Regarding the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), Marak clarified that Phase 2 extends beyond laying pipelines. He noted that while infrastructure work continues for ongoing projects, completed schemes are being scrutinized to ensure they are fully functional. He admitted there are instances where projects are finished but water supply has not yet commenced, though specific figures were not immediately available.
Addressing criticism regarding the mission’s progress, the minister asserted that the government would not abandon non-functional schemes.
“We will make sure that functionality is there,” he said, adding that all stakeholders will be engaged to ensure the sustainability and proper operation of completed projects.
Marak concluded that the current priority has shifted from mere infrastructure creation to ensuring that water supply systems remain operational and effective on the ground.
