PIONEER NEWS SERVICE | Dehradun
Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has instructed the officials concerned to launch a large-scale cleaning and revival campaign for old wells before the monsoon season. According to officials, wells have traditionally been important sources of clean drinking water in both rural and urban areas. They also hold cultural and religious significance, with some wells also being associated with historical events. However, over time, the usage of wells has declined due to changes in water supply systems. As a result, many wells have fallen into neglect or have been encroached upon. The state government is now set to focus on their maintenance, they added.
Dhami emphasised the importance of renovating old wells, stating that they have been an integral part of our civilisation. He said that there are many ancient wells scattered across cities and villages, and the goal is to restore them to use, which will also enhance water conservation efforts and help preserve natural sources of clean water.
Notably, under the State government’s initiative, the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority (SARA) is working on the conservation of water sources. As part of the Water Conservation Campaign 2024, a total of 6,350 critical and depleted water sources have been identified, with 929 of them crucial for drinking water and irrigation already treated. Additionally, 297 recharge shafts have been constructed in plains to facilitate groundwater recharge. Last year, various water collection and storage structures allowed for the recharge of 3.21 million cubic meters of rainwater.
Apart from this, On November 9, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the Uttarakhand State Foundation Day celebrations, urged residents to preserve their traditional water sources, known as naulas and dharas and to accelerate initiatives aimed at water cleanliness. He highlighted Uttarakhand’s tradition of worshipping these natural water sources and, in line with that tradition, the state government is now launching a campaign to conserve wells.
