Surat, a city in Gujarat, has made significant strides in water conservation. It has successfully implemented a water harvesting initiative that led to the construction of over 67,000 recharge wells. This initiative is part of a national campaign led by the Prime Minister of India, aimed at increasing public participation in water conservation. Surat now ranks among the top ten cities in India for its efforts in this area.
The water conservation programme, known as the Jan Bhagidari Yojana, seeks to improve groundwater levels and manage water resources sustainably. The initiative encourages local communities, corporates, and government bodies to collaborate in building various water recharge structures. These include recharge wells, recharge pits, and rooftop rainwater harvesting systems.
As part of this initiative, various local projects have been completed. For instance, new recharge structures in the villages of Sewani and Balalkuva have reduced local water scarcity issues. The costs of these projects vary, with expenses for different types of structures ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹65,000 per unit. This economic approach makes it feasible for even smaller communities to implement water conservation measures.
The ongoing efforts in Surat are also supported by various organizations under corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Over 27,000 projects have been planned, with thousands already completed. This includes significant contributions from multi-national companies and local industries. The aim is to create a robust network of water conservation facilities throughout the region.
The success of these projects is visible in the rising groundwater levels, which are essential for agriculture and domestic use. The Prime Minister has highlighted the importance of water conservation, emphasizing that it is not just a resource issue but a matter of life and the future of humanity. He called for collective efforts to address water scarcity across the country.
Surat’s achievements in water conservation serve as a model for other cities in India. The city’s commitment to sustainable water management is crucial, especially in the context of climate change and increasing water demand. By focusing on public participation and community-led initiatives, Surat is paving the way for a greener and more sustainable future.
In conclusion, Surat’s ranking among the top ten cities for water conservation is a testament to the city’s innovative approaches and the collaborative spirit of its residents. As more projects are completed, the hope is to ensure water availability even in times of drought, making water a sustainable resource for future generations.
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