Indore (Madhya Pradesh): For combating the looming water crisis and preserving traditional water sources, Indore Municipal Corporation officially launched Jal Ganga Sanvardhan Abhiyan 2.0 at Ravindra Natya Grah on Thursday, announcing to install 300 recharge shafts in the city marking the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilya Bai Holkar.
“We will install 300 recharge shafts through public participation. This isn’t just a government task; it's a shared responsibility,” mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav said.
The campaign, aimed at reinforcing the city’s commitment to water conservation, witnessed a strong show of public support, with citizens, elected representatives and civil society leaders taking a pledge to protect and conserve water.
A documentary showcasing the IMC’s past water conservation initiatives was also screened, highlighting the tangible progress made over the years.
Municipal Commissioner Shivam Verma provided an update on technical initiatives: “We’ve initiated revival work on 411 wells, stepwell restoration, and river recharge via hydrological surveys. Public cooperation is central to this mission,” he said.
Water works in-charge Abhishek Sharma ‘Bablu’ reflected on the campaign’s origins three years ago. “Since then, 15 ponds have been rejuvenated and structures have been created to direct rainwater back into natural sources,” he said.
Ministers emphasise urgency, collective responsibility
Urban administration and housing minister Kailash Vijayvargiya stressed the need for both incentives and penalties to drive behavioural change.
“Water conservation must be rewarded. Tax exemptions can be offered to those who contribute, while penalties should be imposed on those who ignore their responsibility,” he said. He further urged all city corporators to commit to installing at least 500 rainwater harvesting systems in their respective wards.
Water resources minister Tulsiram Silawat underscored the importance of restoring Indore's traditional water structures. “Our ponds, wells and stepwells are not just resources but our cultural heritage. We must reclaim them from encroachment and revive them to secure our future,” he said.
