Dhanbad, Aug 4 (IANS) Rooftop rainwater harvesting and the revival of traditional wells are emerging as effective solutions for ensuring safe drinking water and improved sanitation in north Bihar and Dhanbad, according to Eklavya Prasad, a leading advocate of the ‘Megh Pyne Abhiyan’.
Addressing the growing concerns over water scarcity and groundwater contamination, Prasad said the ‘Megh Pyne Abhiyan’ has been working for years to transform water conservation into a people’s movement.
The campaign focuses on rainwater harvesting, safe drinking water, sanitation, and the restoration of traditional water bodies, particularly in flood-prone regions where access to clean water remains a major challenge.
As part of its initiatives, rooftop rainwater harvesting systems are being installed in rural and flood-affected areas of north Bihar. The collected rainwater is stored in specially designed tanks, enabling communities to access clean and safe drinking water throughout the year, even during periods of water scarcity.
He noted that the initiative has brought significant relief to residents living in areas frequently affected by floods, where conventional water sources often become contaminated.
By promoting decentralised water storage systems, the campaign is helping communities become more resilient and self-reliant in managing their water needs.
Highlighting another important aspect of the movement, Prasad said the campaign is also restoring old and abandoned wells that had fallen into disuse over the years.
Reviving these traditional water structures is not only helping recharge groundwater levels but also providing an alternative source of potable water for local communities, he said.
He pointed out that groundwater drawn through handpumps in several regions contains harmful contaminants such as arsenic and iron, posing serious health risks to residents. In this context, the conservation and revival of traditional water sources are proving to be practical and sustainable measures for ensuring access to safe drinking water.
Emphasising the need for wider public participation, Prasad urged individuals, communities, and institutions to adopt rainwater harvesting practices and become more conscious of water conservation.
He said that if every household, school, office, and public institution harvested and utilised rainwater effectively, the looming water crisis could be substantially reduced.
“Water conservation is not merely an environmental necessity but a collective social responsibility. Community participation is essential to securing water resources for future generations,” he said.
The ‘Megh Pyne Abhiyan’ has been advocating sustainable water management practices, combining traditional wisdom with modern conservation techniques to address the challenges of water security, groundwater depletion, and safe drinking water in vulnerable regions.
–IANS
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