The Meghalaya government has launched efforts to rejuvenate over 741 critical water sources that are drying up due to the adverse effects of climate change.
In a statement to the media, Public Health Engineering (PHE) Minister Marcuise N Marak acknowledged the widespread impact of climate change on water sources across the country. He mentioned that the state has already begun implementing corrective measures, which include the rejuvenation of springs and other water sources. However, he noted that the results of these efforts would only be visible after a few years.
Marak highlighted that the department has identified more than 741 critical water sources. A climate council has been established to oversee the rejuvenation of these sources.
The minister also pointed out that the drying up of water sources has affected the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) projects, as many villages are experiencing water shortages due to this issue. The government is committed to taking all necessary steps to address the problem. The implementation of JJM projects has drawn criticism from various quarters, with many projects not delivering water to intended recipients. Marak’s statement goes some way to explain the reason for some of that.
Marak identified jhum cultivation, particularly in the Garo Hills and parts of West Khasi Hills, as the primary cause of the drying up of water sources.
He emphasised the importance of following the central government’s initiative for rainwater harvesting at the household level to recharge groundwater resources.
