In a major step towards tackling water scarcity, the Meghalaya government has initiated efforts to rejuvenate 741 critical water sources that are drying up due to climate change.
Public Health Engineering (PHE) Minister Marcuise N. Marak highlighted the alarming impact of climate change on water availability. He cited discussions at the 2nd All India Water Ministers Conference in Udaipur on February 18-19, where ministers from across the country shared similar concerns.
“Climate change is affecting water sources everywhere. We have already begun corrective measures, but results will take a few years. Our focus is on rejuvenating springs and other critical sources that are drying up,” Marak said.
He further informed that under Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma’s leadership, the state has established a climate council to address these issues. The council has prioritized restoring key water sources to ensure long-term sustainability.
The drying up of these sources has also impacted the implementation of Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) projects, affecting water supply in several villages. “Many villages face water shortages because their sources have dried up. We are taking all necessary measures to address this,” Marak assured.
The minister attributed the depletion of water sources partly to jhum cultivation, especially in Garo Hills and parts of West Khasi Hills.
Aligning with the Government of India’s “Catch the Rain When It Falls” campaign, Marak emphasized the need to restore rivers and promote rainwater harvesting.
“We plan to promote rainwater harvesting in two ways—at the household level and by recharging groundwater,” he added.
