Shillong: Government officials and environmental experts in Meghalaya have issued a stark warning, demanding immediate and comprehensive measures to safeguard the state’s vital watersheds. Concerns are mounting over the rapid depletion of water resources and the prevalence of unsustainable agricultural practices, threatening the region’s long-term ecological balance.
The second day of the Watershed Yatra in North Garo Hills witnessed intense discussions focused on halting the accelerating loss of crucial water sources. Participants underscored the urgent need to address the destructive impact of unsustainable farming methods, which are exacerbating the crisis.
Soil and Water Conservation Minister Marcuise N. Marak passionately called for a paradigm shift, stressing that the Watershed Yatra should evolve into a sustained movement rather than a mere program. He advocated for the development and implementation of robust, long-term conservation strategies aimed at restoring and protecting the state’s water bodies, emphasizing the pivotal role of local communities in preserving these essential resources.
Dr. Joram Beda, Commissioner & Secretary of the Soil and Water Conservation Department, highlighted the indispensable role of watersheds in providing clean drinking water to Meghalaya’s population, particularly given the state’s heavy reliance on mountain springs. He pointed to the alarming rise in shifting cultivation practices within the Garo Hills, a major contributor to deforestation and soil erosion, which are severely compromising water availability.
Efforts under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana – Watershed Development Component 2.0 (PMKSY-WDC 2.0) have led to the construction of 1,000 water harvesting structures and the implementation of 1,538 irrigation activities, aimed at developing micro-watersheds and enhancing irrigation infrastructure. However, officials revealed that a concerning 30-40% of micro-watersheds remain in a critical or semi-critical state, necessitating continued and intensified intervention.
The event, attended by Deputy Speaker Timothy Shira and various MLAs, placed a strong emphasis on the critical importance of community involvement in conservation initiatives. As Meghalaya faces escalating environmental challenges, officials reiterated that the protection of watersheds is paramount to ensuring the state’s enduring water security and agricultural sustainability.