The state water resources department on Tuesday announced that the Gangajal Supply Scheme (Gangajal Apurti Yojna) is yielding positive results in Rajgir, Gaya, Bodh Gaya, and Nawada, effectively addressing chronic water shortages in the region. During a review meeting at the irrigation building in Patna, officials lauded the project as a significant step toward tackling water scarcity caused by declining groundwater levels and erratic rainfall patterns.
Project Highlights
Mission director Sumit Kumar stated that this scheme represents the state's first successful effort to transport Ganga water over a long distance through an extensive network of pipelines and pumping stations. He emphasized that the infrastructure was developed during the COVID-19 pandemic, marking a notable engineering achievement.
Integration with Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan
Special secretary K D Prajwal noted that the project is a key component of the Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan. He explained that the initiative helps create a more sustainable water management system by diverting water that would otherwise contribute to flooding.
Climate Change and Water Management
Consultant Ishwar Chandra Thakur highlighted that climate change has reduced reservoir capacity to nearly 50%, prompting the state to focus on pipe irrigation systems and improved water resource management to maximize the use of available supplies. The department also emphasized environmental sustainability.
Engineer-in-chief Varun Kumar urged departmental personnel to contribute to ecological conservation by planting and maintaining at least nine trees during their lifetime to help restore natural water cycles.
Documentary Screening
The programme concluded with the screening of a documentary showcasing the technical execution of the project and its contribution to the socio-economic development of the four beneficiary districts.
