Shimla, Feb 28,
The sun cast a golden glow over the serene ponds of Himachal Pradesh as villagers gathered near an old water body in Una. These ponds, once a lifeline for drinking water, irrigation, and supporting local wildlife, have fallen into neglect over the years. Encroachment and pollution have turned many of them into dry, degraded patches of land.
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Addressing this issue, Irrigation and Public Health (IPH) Minister Mukesh Agnihotri held a high-level meeting this morning. He expressed deep concern over the state’s declining water table and the rampant exploitation of groundwater due to unscientific borewell digging. “The old ponds, established in every nook and corner of the villages, are our only hope to recharge and revive the groundwater,” the minister stated.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Mahinder Pal Gujjar, Block Development Officers (BDOs), environmental experts, and local representatives. Officials presented alarming reports on the deteriorating condition of the district’s ponds.
“Many ponds are filled with silt and waste,” said ADC Gujjar. “Encroachments have reduced their size, and their water-holding capacity has drastically declined. The situation is critical and demands immediate action.”
Minister Agnihotri stressed the importance of preserving these water bodies. “Water is life. If we don’t act now, future generations will suffer. I want a detailed survey of all ponds, lakes, and reservoirs in the district. We will create a digital record and classify them based on their condition,” he instructed.
The proposed restoration plan includes reviving historical and ecologically significant ponds, preventing further encroachments, and enforcing strict regulations against pollution. The minister directed the administration to collaborate with environmental experts for desilting the ponds, installing protective fencing, and promoting rainwater harvesting. Special emphasis will be placed on developing five A-class ponds in each block, complete with walking tracks, lighting, and beautification to attract both tourists and locals.
During the discussions, the Forest Department highlighted the need to create water structures for migratory birds and wildlife to help maintain biodiversity. Minister Agnihotri acknowledged this and instructed officials to prioritize conservation efforts for ponds that serve as habitats for birds and aquatic life.
Additionally, a proposal was put forth to develop ghats along the Swan River, transforming it into a religious and tourist attraction. Officials also raised concerns about the over-extraction of groundwater through tube wells and the unchecked digging of new borewells, which pose a serious threat to farmers during the summer season.
The meeting concluded with a firm commitment to preserving and rejuvenating Una’s ponds, ensuring sustainable water management and environmental conservation for the region’s future.
