The State Government has roped in German International Cooperation (GIZ) to formulate the State Water Policy.
“We have roped in GIZ as our technical partner in formulating this very important policy which relates to the preservation of the water bodies,” a senior government official informed here on Tuesday.
According to the official, the German agency had worked in several countries and assisted in formulating similar policies.
“The German firm has brought their international expertise and given valuable suggestions towards formulating of this proposed policy which is shaping up very well,” the official said. When asked about the status of the water policy, he said that they are currently compiling the views and suggestions of the various stakeholders including the recommendations of the various Government departments.
“We had earlier put the draft of the policy in the public domain inviting views and suggestions. We are happy to see that many individuals and groups have come forward with their views and suggestions,” the official said, which adding that after compiling the various views and suggestions, the final draft of the policy would be placed before Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma and Deputy Chief Minister in charge Water Resources Rowell Lyngdoh after which it would be tabled before the Cabinet for final approval.
The proposed draft document of the State Water Policy has laid emphasis on the need to regulate exploitation of ground water resources.
“There should be a periodical reassessment of the ground water potential on a scientific basis taking into consideration the quality of the water available and economic viability of its extraction,” the draft document prepared by the State Government, which is available on the official website of the Water Resources department, states.
Stating that the detrimental environmental consequences of over exploitation of ground water need to be effectively prevented by the State Government, the proposed draft document, adds that over exploitation of ground water should be avoided especially near the brackish/ polluted water bodies to prevent ingress of salt/polluted water into sweet water aquifers.
“The ground water recharge projects should be developed and implemented for improving both the quality and availability of ground water resources,” the draft document states.
The document also dwells on the need to regularly monitor the quality of surface and ground water.
“A phased programme should be undertaken for improvements in water quality. Effluents should be treated to acceptable levels and standards before discharging them into natural streams,” the document adds.
“Minimum flow should be ensured in the perennial streams for maintaining ecology and social considerations. There should be a necessary legislation for preservation of existing water bodies by preventing encroachment and deterioration of water quality,” the document states.
The draft also states that adequate safe drinking water facilities should be provided to the entire population both in urban and rural areas.
“Irrigation and multipurpose projects should invariable include a drinking water component, wherever there is no alternative source of drinking water.
“Drinking water needs of human beings and animals should be the first charge on any available water,” the draft says.
Moreover, the draft document states that management of water resources for diverse uses should incorporate a participatory approach by involving not only the various governmental agencies but also the users and other stakeholders.
The draft document also stresses on the need to have a master plan for flood control and management for each flood-prone basin.
