Water Conservation to Be Top Priority Under VBG Ram G Scheme, Says Uttara Kannada ZP CEO
District administration plans to focus on groundwater recharge and sustainable water conservation works across Uttara Kannada.
Karwar, July 30: Uttara Kannada Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Dr Dilish Shashi has announced that water conservation projects will receive the highest priority under the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission Grameen, commonly known as the VBG Ram G scheme.
Chairing the district level progress review meeting at the Zilla Panchayat Hall on Wednesday, Dr Shashi said declining groundwater levels in the hilly taluks have resulted in borewells drying up, while several coastal areas are facing saltwater intrusion into drinking water wells.
He said the district administration aims to address these long term challenges by improving groundwater recharge through a range of water conservation initiatives. The projects will also generate employment opportunities for rural residents under the scheme.
Dr Shashi said the process of identifying ponds within Gram Panchayat limits has already begun and comprehensive plans will be prepared for their development. He added that the action plan will include the construction of groundwater recharge units for individual and community borewells, restoration of traditional water sources, flood protection structures, nala bunds, farm ponds, contour trenches, and check dams.
He said these measures are intended to strengthen water security and provide a lasting solution to drinking water shortages in the district.
The meeting was attended by Zilla Panchayat Deputy Secretary Allah Baksh, Planning Director Kareem Asadi, Development Branch Deputy Secretary Prakash Halammanavar, Chief Accounts Officer Anandsa Habib, district level officials from various departments, Taluk Panchayat Executive Officers, Assistant Directors, and subject experts.