In another innovative attempt toward conservation of groundwater, its better management and usage, the Yogi Adityanath-led Government of Uttar Pradesh will conduct the exercise of excavation and rejuvenation of ‘Amrit Sarovars’ (ponds) in each of the 75 districts of the state.
Chairing a high-level meeting with senior officials on Tuesday, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath instructed, “To mark the ‘Amrit Kaal’, ‘Amrit Sarovars’ should be excavated or rejuvenated in each of the 75 districts. This will not only regulate the groundwater level but also will give a boost to local tourism.”
In pursuance of the directives of the CM, a total of 5625 ponds would be coming up in 75 districts, which will be termed as ‘Amrit Sarovars’. He has directed that neglected ponds should be identified in all the districts for ‘Amrit Sarovar’. Where there are no ponds, new ponds should be dug on the government land. In case of any inconvenience in getting at least 75 ponds ready in smaller districts like Shravasti and Sant Kabir Nagar or in every district of Bundelkhand, then the number of ponds in bigger districts should be increased to meet the target.
To carry out the exercise of rejuvenation of ponds, local public representatives will also be involved in arranging labour and providing employment. According to the instructions of the CM, proper arrangements will also be made for the maintenance of these ponds. There will be clear provisions in the action plan to ensure that dirty water does not contaminate the pond. If there are aquatic animals in the ponds, measures will be taken, accordingly. In addition, sailing will also be done in them as per convenience.
It is noteworthy that continuous efforts are being made by the central and state government to improve the depleting groundwater level. With schemes like Atal Bhujal Yojana, the situation has improved a lot, while stringent laws have also been implemented to check unnecessary exploitation of groundwater.
