Consultation on water crisis management

Ranchi, September 21: A two-day comprehensive consultation on water crisis and management was organised for civil society organisations (CSOs) aimed at collaborative effort towards addressing water crisis and scarcity in Jharkhand. The inaugural day of the consultation organised jointly by PHIA Foundation, PRADAN, CSO Forum and RRA Network at Ranchi on Thursday had session on understanding water crisis at global, national and state level in the context of climate change, policies, uncontrolled use and mismanagement and impact on livelihood, living conditions and community’s wellbeing.

Dheeraj Horo, the state lead of Jharkhand for PHIA Foundation, provided a compelling keynote address, setting the stage for subsequent deliberations by various delegates. The event witnessed active participation and collaboration from panchayat raj institutions (PRIs) and CSOs across nearly 14 districts, underscoring its significance and reach. There will be deliberation on the critical issue and come up with suggestions and recommendations to conserve, revive and restore groundwater and water resources. The participants include experts, government officials, academics, CSOs, persons from the field who have done exemplary work in water conservation and revival in their respective villages.

The introductory session was addressed by former advisor to the Supreme Court, Balram, senior.consultant Union ministry of Jal Shakti, Ravindra Bohra, Ghanshyam and Krishna Kant. Women leaders and Mukhiyas from Torpa and Manika blocks also shared their struggle and experiences. A plan of action will be developed as a way forward and would include short term and long term initiatives and policy changes as required.(W.rg)