PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The Municipal Corporation of Dehradun (MCD) is now scaling up water conservation measures across the capital as part of Catch the Rain Campaign under the Government of India’s Jal Shakti Abhiyan.
Speaking of the drive, the municipal commissioner, Namami Bansal said that coordination and monitoring responsibilities have been assigned to the State Water Conservation Authority to ensure uniform implementation across districts. “The campaign aims to strengthen water conservation practices while addressing location-specific needs in both cities and villages,” she said and added that special drives are underway in urban areas to tackle recurring problems such as waterlogging, which worsens during the monsoon.”
She further said that measures include improving stormwater drainage networks, upgrading sewage management systems to reduce surface runoff and preventing seasonal accumulation of water. “These interventions are expected to improve urban water resilience and reduce infrastructure stress,” she added.
In rural areas, the focus remains on augmenting water sources, enhancing recharge structures and promoting efficient water use to improve long-term water security. The integrated approach is intended to support both domestic and agricultural needs, especially in water-stressed regions.
The MCD officials said that comprehensive planning is being carried out after reviewing hydrological, environmental and infrastructure factors. Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for the proposed schemes are currently being prepared and would be finalised soon to ensure timely execution, they added.
The Jal Shakti Abhiyan, launched by the Union Government, emphasises community participation, rainwater harvesting, restoration of traditional water bodies and sustainable water management practices.
The officials added that regular monitoring and field inspections would be conducted to assess progress and ensure that projects meet technical standards and local requirements.
