Shillong: In a significant push toward water conservation, Meghalaya has built 1,601 springsheds over the last five years under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), with a total expenditure of Rs. 46.62 crore.
During an Assembly session on Monday, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma highlighted that approximately 70,000 springsheds have been identified across the state, with 55,000 mapped.
Of these, 792 springsheds are in critical condition, as they serve as vital water sources for projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
To address the crisis, a Rs. 32-crore rejuvenation project has been launched to restore 67 springsheds on a priority basis.
“The soil and water conservation department is working on a war footing to bring these springs back to life,” said Sangma.
The chief minister emphasised the success of the initiative, stating, “All 1,601 springsheds constructed under MGNREGS stand as success stories.”
These projects are monitored and maintained by village employment councils (VECs) and local communities, ensuring their sustainability.
In addition, a $62 million Asian Development Bank (ADB) project will rejuvenate springsheds and construct 532 new structures.
Sangma also noted that over Rs. 4,000 crore is currently being invested in water-related projects across the state, backed by Meghalaya’s pioneering water policy.
To streamline efforts, a climate council chaired by the Chief Minister now coordinates all water-related departments.
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“We are taking a holistic approach to tackle water issues and have increased spending, ensuring 30% of MGNREGS works are water-related,” he added.
Responding to concerns about the potential impact of the Shillong ropeway project on water sources, Sangma assured that detailed mapping by forest and water conservation departments, alongside international agencies, has ensured minimal environmental disruption.
“The assessment prioritises preserving water sources and forest areas, with plans for tree trimming and fireline creation to prevent deforestation and forest fires,” he explained.
This comprehensive approach underlines Meghalaya’s commitment to sustainable water resource management and environmental conservation.
