UP govt initiates groundwater charging stations in 13 districts to combat depletion

LUCKNOW: Continuing its steadfast commitment to preserving precious groundwater resources, the Uttar Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief minister Yogi Adityanath, is embarking on an ambitious initiative to establish groundwater charging stations across 13 districts of the state.

The move comes in response to the alarming depletion of groundwater levels resulting from overexploitation in both rural and urban areas.

The 13 districts identified for the implementation of this pioneering project are Hathras, Badaun, Moradabad, Sambhal, Prayagraj, Kaushambi, Fatehpur, Pratapgarh, Sonbhadra, Lalitpur, Jalaun, Hamirpur, and Chitrakoot. With an allocation of Rs 8 crore, an official order has been issued to release the designated funds, underscoring the government’s unwavering dedication to tackling the groundwater crisis head-on.

Breaking down the financial distribution, the plan allocates Rs 70.5 lakh for Hathras, Rs 38 lakh for Badaun, Rs 28 lakh for Moradabad, Rs 72 lakh for Sambhal, Rs 80 lakh for Prayagraj, Rs 1.21 crore for Kaushambi, Rs 1.03 crore for Fatehpur, Rs 37.23 lakh for Pratapgarh, Rs 28 lakh for Sonbhadra, Rs 50 lakh for Jalaun, Rs 41 lakh for Lalitpur, Rs. 35.60 lakh for Hamirpur, and Rs. 94.16 lakh for Chitrakoot. These funds are designated for the establishment of groundwater charging check dams, an innovative measure aimed at replenishing groundwater reserves.

The financial disbursements have been greenlit by the Namami Gange and Rural Water Supply Department, with strict instructions provided to local blocks for their proper utilization.

Jal Shakti minister Swatantra Dev Singh said that the implementation of the groundwater charging check dams will fall under the purview of the chief engineer of the Minor Irrigation Department, ensuring meticulous oversight and adherence to construction standards.

“The chief engineer will be entrusted not only with the actual construction process but also with the responsibility of safeguarding against fund diversion. All procedural aspects, including the procurement of necessary certifications, acquisition of construction machinery and equipment, and adherence to the Uttar Pradesh Budget Manual and Financial Handbook, will be meticulously observed,” he said.

The equitable distribution of allocated funds among the 13 identified districts will be carried out by the Minor Irrigation Department, aligning with the comprehensive project blueprint.

The minister said that this initiative demonstrates the Uttar Pradesh government’s resolute determination to combat the critical issue of groundwater depletion, setting a commendable example for sustainable water resource management across the nation.

“As the construction phase commences, all eyes are on the successful execution of these charging stations, with hopes high for a brighter and more water-secure future for the state of Uttar Pradesh,” the

minister said.