75 Cities Unite to Boost Groundwater Security in India
In a significant step toward enhancing urban water security, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has spearheaded a national dialogue involving 75 cities. This initiative is part of the nationwide ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign, conducted in collaboration with the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA). The interactive event aimed to spotlight the progress made under the Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM) programme, focusing on best practices and successful groundwater recharge interventions.
Strengthening Urban Water Resilience
The Shallow Aquifer Management programme is designed to support cities in improving groundwater recharge through strategic planning and technical guidance. Currently, 75 cities are engaged in implementing a variety of recharge solutions, which include the construction of recharge shafts, injection wells, check dams, gabion walls, circular khals, and modular recharge pits. These initiatives are crucial for promoting sustainable rainwater harvesting, replenishing aquifers, and bolstering climate resilience in urban areas.
Insights from Participating Cities
The interaction, chaired by Smt. D. Thara, Additional Secretary of MoHUA, and moderated by Smt. Isha Kalia, Joint Secretary of MoHUA, featured representatives from various Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) who shared their experiences. Cities presented their implementation achievements, challenges faced, and future plans for expanding groundwater recharge efforts.
Encouraging results were showcased by several cities. Korba, for instance, announced plans to revive an additional 95 defunct borewells, building on its successful SAM interventions. Vizianagaram reported positive trends in groundwater levels, and Nagpur committed to constructing 100 new recharge structures during the current monsoon season. Bhubaneswar also highlighted how SAM initiatives have not only improved groundwater recharge but also mitigated urban flooding by enhancing stormwater infiltration.
The Role of Community Engagement
Experts in groundwater management emphasized the critical role of community involvement and local stewardship in ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of groundwater recharge programs. Their insights underscored the importance of fostering local engagement to safeguard these initiatives.
The interactive session reaffirms MoHUA’s dedication to promoting sustainable groundwater management through scientific, nature-based, and community-focused interventions. This aligns with the broader goals of the ‘Catch the Rain’ campaign, aiming to create water-secure and climate-resilient urban environments across India.
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