Water conservation vital for future generations: Collector

Gadwal: District Collector Rizwan Basha Shaik has stressed the need for judicious use of water to ensure water security for future generations, particularly in the face of climate-related challenges such as El Nino conditions.

The Collector participated in the 9th India International Water Week, being organised by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from September 20 to 26. On Thursday, he made a special presentation on the best water management practices being implemented in Jogulamba Gadwal district.

During his presentation, the Collector highlighted measures including increasing reservoir storage capacity, undertaking water conservation works under the VBG Ramji scheme, expanding oil palm cultivation, promoting horticulture and micro-irrigation, and strengthening fisheries development.

He said greater emphasis should be laid on identifying and implementing water conservation works under the VBG Ramji scheme to help the district withstand drought conditions. He also explained the integrated approach being adopted in the district covering water conservation, agricultural diversification, groundwater recharge and community participation.

The Collector emphasised the construction of recharge pits at household level, farm ponds in agricultural fields, community soak pits and percolation ponds in villages. He stressed the need to expand micro-irrigation systems such as drip irrigation and encourage dryland crops, which can reduce water consumption and weed growth while improving water-use efficiency.

He also called for effective maintenance of check dams and promotion of social forestry to strengthen groundwater resources and improve the local environment. Increased green cover, he said, would contribute to a healthier environment and help address pollution and climate-related challenges.

The Collector underlined that water conservation cannot be achieved by governments alone and requires active participation from voluntary organisations, environmental experts, farmers and the public.

He thanked the organisers of the India International Water Week for providing an opportunity to present Jogulamba Gadwal district’s water management initiatives on a national

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