Surat (Gujarat) [India], June 30 (ANI): South Gujarat’s forests are being transformed into natural water reservoirs under the Forest Department’s Ridge-to-Valley model as part of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain campaign, strengthening water conservation, groundwater recharge and rural livelihoods.
In forest areas such as Umarpada in Surat district, rainwater is being conserved through check dams, forest ponds and contour trenches. Over the past five years, the initiative has led to the construction of around 170 check dams and 215 forest ponds, helping recharge nearly 580 crore litres of groundwater.
Farmers say the water conservation structures have benefited both agriculture and local employment.
“A check dam and a pond have been built to store water. Villagers get employment through excavation work, and the stored water helps farmers irrigate their fields,” said farmer Jethia Bhai Vasava of Dheertan village.
Another farmer, Rakesh Kumar Vasava from Ghanavad village, said the check dams and ponds have improved rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.
“The groundwater level has increased, borewells have improved, and the initiative has greatly benefited farmers living in forest areas,” he said.
Officials said the project has significantly enhanced water availability across the region.
Deputy Conservator of Forests Dheeraj Kumar said that under the initiative, more than 150 check dams, over 200 forest ponds and nearly two lakh running metres of contour trenches have been created.
“These structures have improved rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge. In tribal areas under the Surat Forest Division, including Umarpada, Mandvi and Wakal, groundwater levels have risen, and water availability in wells and borewells has improved,” he said.
Assistant Conservator of Forests Gaurav Lodha said the Surat Forest Division has conserved nearly 580 crore litres of water over the last five years.
“In areas where Soil and Moisture Conservation works have been carried out, groundwater levels have increased by around one to one-and-a-half metres. During the past year alone, nearly 1.15 lakh man-days of employment were generated, providing livelihood opportunities for local communities, especially in tribal areas, reducing migration and improving socio-economic conditions,” he said.
Officials said the Ridge-to-Valley model has emerged as an example of integrated watershed management by combining rainwater conservation, groundwater recharge, employment generation and environmental protection, contributing to long-term water security in South Gujarat. (ANI)
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