Marcuise N. Marak, Minister of Public Health Engineering (PHE), has expressed concern about the concerning loss of water supplies throughout Meghalaya, blaming the situation on unsustainable agricultural methods, Jhum farming, and climate change. He gave his word that corrective action has already been taken by the state administration to address the issue. According to Marak, the state’s Climate Council, which is chaired by Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, is directing the corrective measures being implemented in response to the PHE department’s identification of 741 essential water sources that need immediate attention.
“The Indian government has already adopted the phrase “catch the rain where it falls.” Thus, we are attempting to revitalize our streams and sources in accordance with that principle,” he stated. “Definitely, it is being impacted,” Marak said when asked if the drying water sources were having an effect on significant initiatives like the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). The majority of the JJM projects are impacted. Although it will take time, we are doing all the required steps.
In his reflection on the recent Udaipur conference, Marak emphasized how well-received Meghalaya’s suggestion on spring rejuvenation was. “In my address, I brought it up, and my Commissioner Secretary also made a presentation. We stressed that we can only guarantee the uninterrupted flow of rivers by revitalizing spring sources. I learned that one of the main takeaways from the valedictory session was our suggestion for spring rejuvenation,” he remarked.