11 springs identified to be developed into model Springsheds
Our Correspondent
Kohima | April 10
Nagaland being a predominantly rural and hilly state with more than 90 per cent of water demand for domestic purpose in rural areas depending on springs, it is important to revive/rejuvenate the dying springs and to increase the water availability through Springshed development.
This was stated in the annual administrative report 2015-16 of Nagaland’s Land Resources Department.
The report stated that the department has taken initiative for Springshed development in 2015 which seeks to address the issues of regenerating springs, streams and underground flows.
The prime focus is to identify recharge area of springs and streams and enhance recharge through community-led (participatory) actions and for proper management and equitable distribution of water, the report stated, adding that springshed development can help enhance rainfall infiltration into the ground, recharge springs, revive dysfunctional traditional systems, moderate flood peaks and recharge streams and rivers.
As prelude to the initiative of Springshed development in Nagaland, a consultative workshop took place in the month of November last year at Ruzaphema, involving experts, researchers, development agencies, policy makers and other stakeholders from various parts of the country, during which several important issues and problems were indentified and recommendations suggested for the state of Nagaland.
Outcome of that workshop was the identification of 11 Springs from 11 districts of Nagaland to develop them into model Springsheds which will be implemented in convergence with PSI, ARGHYAM, ACWADAM and PMKSY-WDC.
The report stated that water quality testing has been carried out and awareness created among the primary stakeholders on conservation and management of natural springs.
A Detailed Project Report for implementing Springshed in 50 villages has been prepared and submitted to the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change which is under active consideration, the report added.
