Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed officials to expedite water conservation works across the state in anticipation of potential drought conditions due to El Niño. The focus is on completing projects under the Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan (JSA) scheme and other water conservation initiatives before the onset of the monsoon’s withdrawal.
Key directives include completing 1.25 lakh works under JSA by October 31st, with a specific emphasis on desilting of dams and nullahs to increase storage capacity. Officials have been instructed to prioritize works that can be finished quickly and have a significant impact on water availability.
Fadnavis highlighted the need for proactive measures given the forecast of El Niño, which typically leads to below-average rainfall. He emphasized the importance of water audits to assess current water levels and identify areas facing potential shortages. The government aims to ensure sufficient water availability for drinking water and irrigation during the upcoming summer months.
The review meeting covered the status of various water conservation projects, including those related to farm ponds, cement nala bunds, and groundwater recharge structures. Officials were asked to submit daily progress reports and address any bottlenecks hindering project implementation.
Concerns were raised about the slow pace of work in some districts, and Fadnavis stressed the need for increased coordination between different departments – including water resources, agriculture, and rural development – to ensure efficient execution. He also directed officials to explore the use of technology, such as remote sensing, for monitoring water conservation efforts.
The state government is allocating funds for these projects and is committed to mitigating the impact of a potential drought situation. The emphasis is on maximizing water storage and minimizing water wastage through effective conservation measures. The goal is to prepare Maharashtra to face the challenges posed by El Niño and ensure water security for all.
