Haryana’s Chief Minister, Sh. Manohar Lal, has called upon the state’s citizens to use water wisely and minimize wastage, stressing the preciousness of this vital resource. Speaking virtually to the people of Haryana, the Chief Minister inaugurated 60 Amrit+ Sarovars across the state from Dult village in the Tohana assembly constituency of Fatehabad district. Among the inaugurated Sarovars, 31 are situated in Fatehabad district.
Sh. Manohar Lal highlighted Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi’s initiation of the Amrit Sarovar Mission in 2022 to revive the nation’s ponds. The mission aimed to rejuvenate 1650 ponds in every district of Haryana, with a target of 75 ponds per district by May 1, 2002. Thanks to concerted efforts at the state and local levels, Haryana has successfully built 2078 Amrit Sarovars, with an additional 200 slated for construction next month.
Formation of Haryana Pond Authority for Pond Rejuvenation
The Chief Minister announced the establishment of the Haryana Pond and Wastewater Management Authority to rejuvenate ponds across the state. A survey identified 19,649 ponds, with approximately 18,000 in rural areas and 900 in urban areas, of which about 11,000 are polluted and targeted for rejuvenation.
Sh. Manohar Lal underscored a significant water deficit in Haryana, with demand estimated at 35 lakh crore liters against available resources of 21 lakh crore liters, sourced from groundwater, rainfall, and mountains. Despite an interstate dispute hindering water supply from Punjab through the SYL canal, effective water management has ensured approximately 300 tails in South Haryana receive water.
Recognition for Water Conservation Efforts
The Chief Minister lauded Haryana’s efforts in water purification, conservation, and management, earning praise from the Central Pollution Control Board as a model for other states. The state government increased funding for pond rejuvenation and beautification from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 7 lakh per pond, leading to widespread rejuvenation efforts.
Addressing Waterlogging and Encouraging Natural Farming
Sh. Manohar Lal highlighted the adverse impact of chemical fertilizers on soil quality, leading to waterlogging and health hazards like cancer. To mitigate these issues, he advocated for natural farming and diversification of crops, offering incentives through the Mera Pani Meri Virasat scheme to discourage paddy cultivation.
Focus on Groundwater Recharging
With a focus on groundwater recharge, the state plans to construct 1000 recharge wells annually, irrigating approximately 8000 additional acres of land each year. Out of 95 lakh acres suitable for agriculture, irrigation covers 45 lakh acres via canal water, while the remainder relies on rainfall or tube wells.
Harnessing Treated Water for Multiple Uses
The Chief Minister highlighted the installation of 200 treatment plants providing 700 cusecs of treated water for horticulture, irrigation, and industrial purposes. He urged the use of water flow meters, manual rainfall measurement devices, and piezometers for monitoring rainfall and groundwater levels, stressing the importance of rainwater harvesting and water recycling.
Continuous Development in Tohana Region
Development and Panchayats Minister, Sh. Devender Singh Babli, praised the ongoing development in the Tohana region under the Chief Minister’s leadership, emphasizing the vision for urbanization in villages. Notable projects include the Tohana bypass and the establishment of a medical college in Fatehabad.
MP Smt. Sunita Duggal, MLA Sh. Dura Ram, Deputy Commissioner Sh. Ajay Tomer, and other dignitaries graced the occasion with their presence.