Vijayawada: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to accord top priority to restoration and development of chain-linked tanks under the ongoing Jaladhara-Jalaharathi programme.
“All ongoing works must be completed by the end of June,” the Chief Minister ordered while reviewing the progress of the ambitious water conservation initiative through a video conference from the CM’s Camp Office on Saturday.
Naidu stressed the need for optimum utilisation of funds available under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). He warned officials against any laxity in utilisation of the employment funds.
The Chief Minister instructed district collectors to take up projects linking water-surplus basins with water-deficit basins to improve water availability across regions. He emphasised that restoration and development of check dams, percolation pits, farm ponds and contour trenches should be completed without delay under the Jaladhara initiative.
Highlighting the importance of innovation in water management, Naidu asked officials to study the Valmikipuram Vagu Development Model and examine the possibility of replicating it in suitable locations across the state. He requested every district to adopt innovative approaches to strengthen long-term water security.
The CM directed officials to ensure that all check dams, tanks, and farm ponds created or restored during the first phase of Jaladhara remain structurally sound and free from breaches. He ordered the removal of obstructions in canals and embankments to facilitate smooth flow of water and prevent flooding and drainage problems.
Naidu instructed the Irrigation department and AWARE to periodically assess and document the benefits of the programme. He wanted officials to prepare district-wise estimates of groundwater recharge and ecosystem restoration achieved through the initiative.
Underscoring the importance of community participation, the Chief Minister said local residents, farmers and water users’ associations should be actively involved in the programme, with public representatives and officials leading efforts to mobilise the participation of people.
Those who participated in the review meeting included water resources minister Nimmala Rama Naidu, district collectors and senior officials.
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