- Contour trenches, soak pits and ponds are increasing water harvesting capacity, giving new direction to groundwater enrichment.
- MNREGA and public participation make the village a model for water conservation
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, remarkable work is being done in the field of water conservation and groundwater enrichment in Jashpur district. In this regard, the Neemgaon Gram Panchayat of Jashpur development block has emerged as an inspiring model due to its innovative water conservation initiative. Through MNREGA and public participation, various structures have been constructed here for rainwater harvesting and conservation of natural resources, which are increasing water availability and strengthening rural livelihoods.
Under the leadership of Mr. Nagendra Bhagat, Sarpanch of Neemgaon Gram Panchayat, water conservation has become a mass movement in the village. The Gram Panchayat has constructed a total of 2,587 contour trenches so far. These structures, built in hilly and sloping areas, aim to control the flow of rainwater and infuse it into the ground. This has not only prevented soil erosion but is also improving groundwater levels.
Sarpanch Shri Nagendra Bhagat explained that rainwater collects in the contour trench and slowly seeps into the ground, promoting water conservation. Additionally, under the 5 percent model, special structures have been developed along the edges of fields in the village, where rainwater is collected and helps maintain moisture in the fields. This is benefiting farmers with improved crop growth and production.
To promote sanitation and water management in the village, approximately 30 soak pits have been constructed around hand pumps. These structures ensure safe disposal of used water and recharge groundwater. This has not only reduced waterlogging but also promoted environmental protection.
The ponds constructed in Neemgaon have also proven to be an effective means of water conservation. Rainwater is collected in these ponds, providing farmers with an additional source of water for irrigation. Remarkably, even during the scorching summer, many of the ponds are filled to the brim with water, demonstrating the utility and effectiveness of these structures.
These water conservation efforts are not only improving groundwater levels but also strengthening agricultural production, environmental protection, and rural livelihoods. This initiative in Neemgaon is emerging as a successful model for a sustainable solution to the water crisis, one that can be replicated in other gram panchayats.