Shillong: The Mawrah Multipurpose Reservoir Project in East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, has been hailed as a “model for integrated water resource management and community-driven environmental conservation efforts” by the central government’s Economic Survey 2024-25.
Inaugurated in January 2024, the project aims to promote tourism, aquaculture, and farming, while also conserving rainwater, recharging groundwater, and rejuvenating springs.
The reservoir’s unique arc-shaped dam design ensures structural stability and aesthetic beauty, with a total water spread of 19-20 acres and a maximum storage capacity of 528 million litres. This capacity can cater to the water needs of several villages, making it a vital resource for the community.
The project’s focus on adaptation action for water management has also inspired other states to launch initiatives for managing water resources. For instance, Gujarat’s ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ initiative aims to construct 24,800 rainwater harvesting structures, while Chhattisgarh’s ‘Jal Jagar’ campaign promotes rainwater harvesting, rooftop water collection, and wastewater management.
Other notable initiatives include the Smart Laboratory on Clean Rivers (SLCR) in Varanasi, which aims to rejuvenate the Varuna River through sustainable practices and community collaboration. These projects demonstrate India’s commitment to water conservation and sustainable management of water resources.
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