Report highlights risks to water security in Yavatmal district

NAGPUR: Water security in Yavatmal district could be at risk if steps are not taken to revive and renovate water harvesting and recharge structures, reveals a latest study.
The report titled ‘Water Harvesting and Recharge Structures in Yavatmal District: A Status Check’, released by Institute for Sustainable Communities, examines the current status of the water harvesting and recharge structures and measures their effectiveness based on an analysis of the hydro-geology of the area.
The findings of the research indicate that more than 40% of the check dams have been constructed in discharge areas. “Considering that the main role of constructing check dams is to enhance groundwater recharge, their construction in discharge areas does not serve the purpose. Furthermore, it was also found that more than 35% of the check dams, and 32% of the percolation tanks, are either damaged or encroached,” the study stated.
Water bodies that have an area of more than 0.3 hectares have been mapped as part of the study. “The main aspect of the research was to ascertain whether the water harvesting and storage structures in Yavatmal district have been constructed in appropriate locations to be effective for groundwater recharge or surface storage. A total of 686 structures comprising 204 check dams, 211 percolation tanks, 175 ponds, water storage tanks and 96 reservoirs were mapped across the district,” said Romit Sen, associate director of water and agriculture programme at ISC.
According to local communities, poor operation and maintenance of these structures is a major reason for the current state. “It is recommended that a comprehensive plan for repair, renovation and reconstruction of the water harvesting and recharge structures is developed for the district to ensure long term availability and sustainability of water resources. This should include a plan to ensure their maintenance, involving the engagement of the gram panchayat and the village communities,” the study stated.
It further added that emphasis should be given on repairing and renovating the check dams and percolation tanks lying in the recharge areas. “Also, focus is needed on the ponds in the discharge areas for ensuring long term water security for Yavatmal district,” it stated.
Vivek P Adhia, country director-India of Institute for Sustainable Communities, said, “The analysis and findings will help prioritize the revival efforts of various water harvesting and storage structures in Yavatmal. It will also help decision-makers plan for augmenting water resources in the district.”