Take Effective Steps for Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge
Ensure Regular Testing of Drinking Water Quality
A comprehensive action plan should be developed for water supply in the state, keeping in mind the requirements of the next 30 years. Effective steps should be taken for rainwater conservation and increasing groundwater levels. Public participation should be encouraged for the rejuvenation of water sources, rivers, and streams. Suggestions from individuals working in this sector should be incorporated into future plans. Separate, concrete plans should be prepared for drinking water, water storage, and water conservation based on the requirements of the next 10 and 30 years. Efforts should be made to ensure that Ganga water is potable up to the state’s final boundary. STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) work should be carried out on Ganga’s tributaries. Public support and suggestions should be sought for the cleanliness of the Ganga. These directives were given by Chief Minister Shri Pushkar Singh Dhami during a meeting on drinking water and watershed held at the Secretariat on Thursday.
The Chief Minister emphasized that under the Jal Jeevan Mission, people should receive regular water supply through the installed connections. Alongside the rejuvenation of old water sources, new sources should also be identified to prevent drinking water problems during summer. The CM instructed for regular cleaning of water storage tanks and drinking water tankers. He added that the quality of drinking water in the state should be tested periodically. Once all quality standards are met, people should be made aware and encouraged to use water from natural sources.
To ensure that people do not face drinking water issues, a toll-free number and control rooms should be established at the district level. Regular monitoring of public complaints should also be carried out by the department.
The Chief Minister also directed that a list of personnel posted at the same location for over 5 years be provided. He stated that to address complaints regarding road digging after laying new water pipelines, concerned departments should work in coordination. He further directed the Chief Secretary to review the government properties not in use across departments and ensure their proper utilization.
He added that Uttarakhand has entered its silver jubilee year. This young state holds immense potential for development. Special attention should be given to innovations and best practices. Our efforts should be aimed at developing schemes in the state that can serve as models for other states as well. The Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India, has also praised the work being done under the “SARA” initiative in Uttarakhand.
