Shillong, Jun 20: Nearly 50 per cent of Meghalaya’s natural springs have reported reduced discharge, leading to alarming concerns regarding water availability.
In response to the declining water levels, the Meghalaya government has secured funding from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), to build 533 small water harvesting structures to capture 15 million cubic metres of rainwater.
This was informed by Soil and Water Conservation Director Lamjingshaihun Shabong at a World Environment Day programme held in Mynthong, Jowai on Saturday.
Highlighting the need for water conservation, Shabong said Meghalaya has an estimated water potential of 63.2 billion cubic metres. However, only 1.86 billion cubic metres is stored underground, while the rest flows away as surface runoff, according to the Dynamic Ground Water Resources Assessment Report.
He noted that nearly 30 per cent of water is lost to evaporation, and significant runoff contributes to soil erosion and reduced groundwater recharge before draining into the plains of Bangladesh.
Of the state’s estimated one lakh springs, more than 55,000 have been surveyed. “The finding indicates that nearly 50 per cent have experienced a decline in discharge, while some have dried up completely,” Shabong said, citing climate change and changing rainfall patterns. He added that despite substantial annual rainfall, the state faces water scarcity in dry seasons.
To address this, he said 533 water harvesting structures are proposed under the ADB-supported initiative. He called on communities to take part in conservation efforts for long-term water security.
Divisional Soil & Water Conservation Officer Taiwanyoo War said Jowai has 524 water springs. A geo-tag survey showed 120 springs originate from the 4.32-hectare Khloo Langdoh forest and 55 from the 2.43-hectare Mooliksoo forest, benefiting four to six dorbar shnongs.
He stressed that forests are vital for water retention, carbon absorption and clean air, and urged protection of water sources and better rainwater management.
The programme was organised by the Divisional Soil & Water Conservation Department, Jowai Territorial Division, in collaboration with Kur Soo Kpoh Khad-ar Wyrnai on the theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For our Future.”
Later, officers and members of the clan took part in a tree plantation drive using the Miyawaki method of afforestation at the Kur Soo Kpoh Khadar Wyrnai community land.
