Protect natural drinking water sources: Collector

Focus on identifying all water sources, including small streams, canals, and ponds
District Collector MN Harendhira Prasad has sounded the alarm on the need to protect and restore the district’s natural drinking water resources. In a recent directive, he emphasised the urgency of taking robust measures to ensure that future drinking water needs are met seamlessly. “It is crucial that we take decisive action now to safeguard and rejuvenate our water resources,” Collector Harendhira Prasad stated. “I urge local residents and farmers to be actively involved in the conservation and management of these vital resources.”
A review meeting held on Tuesday evening saw VMRDA Commissioner KS Viswanathan and Joint Collector K Mayur Ashok lead discussions on restoration and conservation efforts. Officials were instructed to collaborate with technical staff and cluster officials to prepare cost estimates for the project by October 5. “Our focus is on identifying all water sources, including small streams, canals, brooks, banks, and ponds,” Viswanathan said.
The Collector stressed the necessity for coordinated efforts across departments to address future drinking water needs, highlighting silt removal, canal cleaning, and maintaining overall cleanliness. “We must ensure that canals and ponds are cleaned, and silt is removed to prevent any water shortages,” he added. The Collector also encouraged developing a comprehensive plan to enhance future water resources and exploring CSR funds for restoration projects. The VMRDA Commissioner echoed this sentiment, urging all departments to work diligently on restoration projects.
Encroachments identified during the re-survey include eight acres in Kapuluppada cluster, 11.99 acres in Narava, 1.5 acres in Venkatapuram, and half an acre in Gajuwaka, some of which include religious buildings. “As part of our pilot project, we will develop two ponds in the Kapuluppada cluster,” Viswanathan announced.
Cluster officers have been appointed to oversee these developments. UCD, DRDA, GVMC, and VMRDA officials, along with tahsildars from various mandals and district-level officers from different departments, attended the meeting.