SRINAGAR: On the occasion of World Water Day (WWD), a series of programmes were conducted across the districts of Kashmir division by district administrations to emphasise on the need to conserve water, harvest rain water and to solve water and sanitation crisis.
In Ganderbal, World Water Day was celebrated across the district while the main function was organized at JKTDC Cafeteria Mammer which was presided over by Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Shyambir.
Speaking on the occasion, the DC highlighted the purpose of celebrating World Water Day and emphasized on keeping cleanliness of water bodies and advised the participants to refrain from throwing garbage into water bodies which are the source of freshwater.
He also complemented the Jal Shakti Department Ganderbal for organizing programmes in the district and urged them to generate massive awareness among the masses about the importance of freshwater and how to make judicious use of this precious gift of nature.
Executive Engineer Jalshakti, Samiullah Beigh highlighted the initiatives taken to provide clean and treated portable water supply to all the households of the district. The event was attended by Executive Engineer Jal Shakti, PRI members, officials of Jal Shakti Department Ganderbal and locals.
In Bandipora, the district administration on Wednesday organised ‘Water Conference’ at Mini Secretariat under the theme “Accelerating the change to solve water & sanitation crisis” to celebrate the World Water Day.
The conference was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora and attended by ADDC Ali Afsar Khan, Nodal Officer-Coordination/ Assistant Commissioner Development Mohd Ashraf Hakak, Joint Director Planning Imtiyaz Ahmad, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat , Executive Engineer Jal Shakti, Bandipira/ Sopore, District Information Officer Jahangir Akhoon and other senior officers of the district besides PRI members, Pani Ssamiti Members, Members of Youth Clubs, School children, and field staff of Jal Shakti& Rural Development departments. The members of Panchayat Pani Samitis and Youth Club Members actively participated in the conference.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Dr Owais said the district had conducted a survey under JJM to assess the situation at ground level regarding the availability of potable water. He said that after the administration got the real picture of the situation, an action plan was framed to ensure the supply of pure drinking water.
On the occasion Joint Director Planning briefed the conference about several initiatives being taken by the administration to provide potable drinking water to every household and made a reference to the centrally sponsored Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide potable drinking water to every rural household.
The speakers were informed that the district administration has proposed to lay a network of 1970 kilometers of pipeline under 121 different schemes, including construction of 38 rapid sand filtration plants and 91 Grounded Service Reservoirs.
Officers informed that 29738 households have been provided pure drinking water so far, while the completion of proposed projects will ensure pure water supply to 17611 households. It was given out that Mission Amrit Sarovar is under execution in the district that aims to preserve water bodies in every Panchayat.
Officers informed that 94 sites were proposed under the Amrit Sarovar Mission MGNEGRA, out of which 92 cities we're taken and 91 sites have been completed. Under UT Capex Budget, out of 06 projects, five are under execution, and one has been completed
DFO Bandipora Mudasir Mahmood discussed measures to preserve wet lands and briefed the audience about restoration of Wullar lake to its original shape, de-silting, and quality dredging of Wullar lake.
Dr Owais also gave away appreciation certificates among the best student speakers during the conference besides felicitating media persons, officers, and officials for playing their role to ensure water security in the district. DC Bandipora also felicitated best performing students of painting competitions held across the schools of the district on various themes of water.
ADDC Bandipora, Ali Afsar Khan while speaking at the event, said that the aim of organizing the conference was to sensitize the public and the officers alike regarding the importance of water conservation and bring all the stakeholders together to discuss the issue.
A ceremonial plantation drive was also launched at the conclusion of the conference. Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, at the end of the event, also inspected JJM Lab Testing Stall and Wall Paintings in the premises of Mini-Secretariat Bandipora.
In Baramulla, March 22: The district administration Baramulla in active collaboration with other departments including Jal Jeevan Mission, Forest, Education, R&B, Housing and Urban Development and Information today organised a grand function at Dak Bungalow here to mark its celebration under theme “Accelerating the Change to Solve the Water and Sanitation Crisis”.
Additional District Development Commissioner Baramulla, Aijaz Abdullah Saraf presided over the function as the chief guest while the officers from several departments, school children and other prominent citizens also participated in the programme.
Meanwhile, on the directions of Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Dr Syed Sehrish several theme based lectures and paintings were also organised by the students wherein the best performing students were felicitated by the dignitaries. Stalls and Banners were also installed by the departments showing the achievement under Amrit Sarovars, Jal Jeevan Mission and afforestation.
Speaking on the occasion, ADDC underlined the objectives of celebrating the programme and said that water is a valuable but a scarce resource and every effort should be made to ensure its productive utilisation.
In his address, the ADDC highlighted the theme of the programme and said that several techniques and methods should be adopted for water conservation with special focus on rainwater harvesting. He reiterated its commitment of providing potable drinking water to every household under the centrally sponsored Jal Jeevan Mission within the set timeline.
Meanwhile, an oath was administered during which the participants pledged to conserve water and use it in our daily lives productively.
In Shopian, the ‘World Water Day’ was observed across the district today with the purpose of highlighting the importance of water and raising awareness about the water crisis that the world faces. To strengthen water conservation efforts in the district, functions were held by the Department of Jal Shakti Shopian.
Addressing the participants, speakers reiterated that the aim and objective of celebrating world water day is 'to save water to save generation'. They said our motive shall be to preserve and prevent its misuse. During the proceedings a skit was presented and performed by students, demonstrating captions relating to today’s theme. On the conclusion, Department of Jal Shakti felicitated the participants and women achievers.
The event was attended by the officials of Jal Shakti, Teachers, PRIs, AWWs, Asha Workers, locals besides students of various schools of the district. Various students also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the need for conservation of water resources and judicial usage of drinking water.
In Srinagar, the Institution of Engineers (India), Jammu & Kashmir State Centre celebrated World Water Day by organizing a seminar on the theme "Accelerating Change."
The seminar was held at the IEI Auditorium at Church Lane, Sonwarbagh Srinagar, and was attended by a diverse group of participants including Corporate Members of IEI, Students, Research Scholars, and other dignitaries.
The seminar was attended by Prof. (Dr.) Rakesh Sehgal, Director NIT Srinagar, who was also the Chief Guest of the event. The Guests of Honour were Er. Rashid Ahmad Dar Chief Engineer, MED Kashmir and Er. Basharat Jeelani Kawoosa Chief Engineer, Jal Shakti Department.
The event witnessed an insightful PowerPoint presentation on the topic of water conservation and management by Mohammad Irfan Shah, Student, SSM College of Engineering, Toiba Shafat Koul, Student, SSM College of Engineering, and Mehraj Bhat, Member, The Institution of Engineers (India).
They highlighted the urgent need to accelerate change in the field of water conservation and management. Er. Ferdous Ahad Bhat, MIE (Honorary Secretary), coordinated the event, welcomed the participants & presented the vote of thanks.
In his speech, he emphasized the importance of water conservation and management and the role of the engineering community in accelerating change in this area. The seminar provided a platform for participants to exchange ideas and explore innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by the water sector. The seminar has contributed to raising awareness and accelerating change in the field of water conservation and management.
In Budgam, World Water Day was today celebrated by District administration Budgam in collaboration with Jal Shakti Department Budgam, with District Development Commissioner, (DDC) S F Hamid in Chair, and GH.Nabi Itoo MD JJM as special Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, the DDC made the people aware about the importance of fresh-water and the need to save the precious gift of nature and by using it judiciously but without wasting even a single drop of water. He further said that it is the responsibility of all to save and preserve the water in letter and spirit as it is essential for our life.
He said that under the Jal Jeevan Mission every household would get tap supply in the district and for this purpose several measures are being taken. The day witnessed a massive campaign on water conservation.
MD JJM, speaking on the occasion, highlighted the ongoing schemes of JJM and role of people in maintaining both environment and water resources. He said, how climate is affecting water and its global impact.
He further said that it is the responsibility of all to save and preserve the water in letter and spirit as it is essential for our life. Earlier, a painting competition was organised in the District on world water conservation day in which students of different students participated.
During the seminar, meritorious students of painting competition were felicitated Later on, the DC Budgam and MD JJM took joint review of ongoing water supply schemes in the District.
The DC directed all the officers to complete all the ongoing schemes within a fixed timeline. He said not a single household should be left out without portable tap connections. DC stressed on many issues including forest clearance issue, ftk Training of females, improvement of FHTCS, water quality testing etc..
Besides, Mission director JJM, Chief Engineer PHE Kashmir, Technical advisor JJM , Superintending engineer hydraulic circle Budgam, Executive engineers PHE division Budgam and Chadoora, DPMU unit Budgam and other members were present on the occasion.
In Pulwama, District Administration organised a grand event to celebrate the World Water Day at Govt Boys Degree College and commemorate the Day Long functions organised to create awareness at grass root level regarding the importance of water.
Additional District Development Commissioner Pulwama Dr Sheikh Abdul Aziz was the chief guest on the occasion while ACP Pulwama, Superintending Engineer PHE, District and Sectoral Officers, students, Asha workers and Anganwari workers were also present on the occasion.
The ADDC, while speaking on the occasion, highlighted the importance of sustainable management of fresh water resources. He said it is a collective cause and requires equal efforts from the government and public. The aim of celebrating the water day is to sensitize the public and the officers alike regarding the importance of water conservation, he added.
Addressing the gathering, the ADDC reiterated that the aim and objective of celebrating world water day is to save water to save generation. He said our motive shall be to preserve and prevent its misuse. He enjoined upon the officers to adopt sustainable practices in water conservation besides taking advantage of convergence models.
He said the department of Jal Shakti needs to involve all resources to ensure judicious use of water, and prevent its misuse. The ADDC said that people shall be inspired and advised to take advantage of rainy seasons to preserve and store rainwater so that the same can be used during water shortages for Agricultural and Horticulture purposes.
He said that several initiatives are being taken to provide potable drinking water to every household and made a reference to the centrally sponsored Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide potable drinking water to every rural household.
ADDC Pulwama administered oath to the audience wherein they pledged to save water and take steps to ensure conservation of water. ACP Pulwama, who also spoke on the occasion, stressed on using modern scientific techniques in farming that ensure more production with less wastage of water.
He appreciated all the students who shared their valuable information regarding the importance of saving water through painting and lectures. He stressed upon everyone to understand the importance of celebrating World Water Day adding that it is the responsibility of this generation to conserve water so that the future generation have a good life. During the function, a series of theme based programs were held like debates, painting competitions and cultural events.
In Kulgam: The ‘World Water Day’ was celebrated across the district today. The main colourful function was held Mini-Secretariat Kulgam, organized by District Administration in collaboration with District Jal Jeevan Mission Kulgam (DJJM).
The programme was inaugurated by flagging-off a rally of students and a Prachar vahan (IEC Van) by the Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Dr.Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din-Bhat. While addressing on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner Dr.Bilal-Mohi-Ud-Din-Bhat calls for judicious use of water and conservation of water bodies. He sought pledge from all participants for their commitment in using water optimally, and save the precious gift of nature from wilful wastage.
He added that through Jal Jeevan Mission, all the households will get piped water before June 2023 while informing that under the ambitious Mission, 140 schemes consisting of 240 works will be dedicated at an estimated cost of 467 crore.
Addressing the gathering, the DDC Chairperson Mohammad Afzal Parrey reiterated that the aim and objective of celebrating world water day is 'to save water to save generations'. He said, there is an urgent need to stop misusing water.
Executive Engineer Jal Shakti Division Kulgam, Nawaz Ahmed highlighted achievements of the department and implementation status of Jal Jeevan Mission in the district. During the proceedings colourful cultural programmes, Skits and painting Competitions were also organised.
DDC member Kulgam, Gh Mohi Ud Din and DDC member Frisal Anaya Ullah Rather, PRI members, members of pani Samities and a large gathering of people and students participated in the programme.
ADC Viqar Ahmed Giri, ACP Shurjeel Ali, Tehsildar Hq and other officers also attended the programme. Similar functions was also held at Sub Division D.H.Pora where SDM D.HPora Noorabad, Bashir Ul Hassan highlighted the importance of water and urged people to save water resources. A rally was also organized which was attended by students from various schools to make the masses aware about the importance of conservation of water bodies.
KISHTWAR: Eco Club of Government Degree College Kishtwar collaborated with District Jal Jeevan Mission to organise a symposium on World Water Day at GDC Kishtwar.
Principal GDC Kishtwar, Dr Jyoti Parihar was the chief guest on the occasion, while Chief Education Officer, Sudershan Kumar was the guest of honour. AE Jal Shakti Department, Dewan Chand was special guest whereas District Coordinator IEC, JJM Kishtwar, Riaz Ahmad Butt was the resource person.
Nearly 100 students participated in the event, and many spoke on topics concerning water conservation, sanitation and general wellness.
Dr Jyoti Parihar emphasised the role of individuals in saving water and highlighted the unprecedented water crisis faced by the world. She stressed that on World Water Day it is essential to reflect on the state of the world’s water resources and take action to ensure a sustainable future for all. She appreciated the efforts of the Eco-club and District JJM Kishtwar in organising the event and praised participants for their speeches.
CEO Sudershan Kumar addressed the gathering and raised awareness about the importance of freshwater and the need for sustainable management. He urged participants to recognise that water is an essential resource for all living organisms and its availability is critical for human well-being, economic development and the environment.
The programme was led by Dr Sehrish Gazal who highlighted the importance of natural water bodies and the ecosystem services they provide. She emphasised the need for student participation in raising awareness about the benefits of natural water bodies and measures for their conservation, protection and sustenance.
Mohammad Khalid Saifullah delivered a lecture through a PowerPoint presentation on the topic and urged participants to save water for future generations. The vote of thanks was presented by Prof Sarita who thanked the participants and other stakeholders including JJM Kishtwar.
DODA: World Water Day was celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Jal Shakti Department Doda at Government Higher Secondary School for Boys Doda here today. District Development Commissioner Doda Vishesh Mahajan was the chief guest, while SSP Doda Abdul Qayoom attended as the guest of honour.
A painting competition on the theme of water conservation was organised by District Jal Jeevan Mission. A street play was also presented on the occasion.
The event was also attended by Superintendent Engineer Jal Shakti Hydraulic Circle Doda, Executive Engineer JSD Doda, officers and officials of Jal Shakti Department, teachers from different schools and students. At the end of the event, certificates and prizes were distributed among students.
RAMBAN: To mark World Water Day, Government Degree College Ukhral, Ramsu organised a seminar on the theme “Accelerating the Change to Solve the Water and Sanitation Crisis”. The seminar aimed to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation among students and the general public.
The seminar was opened by Prof Zakir Hussain Naik, Head of the Political Science Department, who welcomed attendees and explained the purpose of the event. Major JS Hanpal was the chief guest, while Dr Akhtar Rasool, a renowned scholar from Kashmir, was the resource person. The seminar was presided over by Principal of the College Dr Ashok Kumar Sharma.
Dr Sharma emphasised the importance of water conservation and encouraged students to educate others about ways to conserve water. Dr Rasool discussed factors that degrade and pollute water and stressed the need for immediate action to preserve safe drinking water. He also highlighted that fresh water makes up only 1% of all water in the world.
The chief guest praised the college administration for organising a seminar on such an important topic. Several students presented papers on water conservation, including Sohan Singh, Sankesha Devi and Pritum Singh. The event was compered by Akash Verma, Head of Computer Applications and concluded with a vote of thanks from Prof Iftikhar Hussain Lone, Head of the English Department. Participants received certificates and refreshments.
RAMBAN: On World Water Day, the District Project Management Unit Ramban of Jal Jeevan Mission organised a function to promote water conservation efforts. The event was presided over by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Harbans Lal, President Municipal Committee, Sunita Sumberia and DDC Member, Renuka Katoch. Sarpanches, other PRI members, students and the general public were in attendance.
Harbans Lal emphasised the importance of achieving the goal of providing tap water to all households within the projected timeline. He instructed officers to increase their efforts to achieve this target.
Sunita Sumberia urged participants to take a pledge to conserve, preserve and save water. She stressed that it is everyone’s responsibility to save water for themselves and their society.
Executive Engineer, Sudheer Kumar encouraged stakeholders to make the ‘Catch the Rain’ mission successful by restoring rainwater harvesting campaigns and conserving other water resources for future generations.
Sudheer Kumar also informed attendees that the department has organised various informative programmes to spread awareness about the Jal Jeevan Mission. A total of 88 schemes will provide 33,800 households with tap connections across the district.
The District Coordinator of National Education Society and Social Welfare (NESSWO) Organisation, an implementation support agency for JJM, briefed participants on the achievements of the mission in the district. AEEs and JEs of Jal Shakti, as well as other officials and citizens, were present.
The department also organised a painting and debate competition for students. Water samples were tested during the event and certificates and prizes were distributed to student participants.
KISHTWAR: As part of World Water Day Celebration 2023, Deputy Commissioner of Kishtwar Dr Devansh Yadav flagged off an awareness rally at Government Model Higher Secondary School for Boys here today.
Dr Devansh Yadav spoke about the importance of celebrating World Water Day and encouraged students, teachers and others to participate enthusiastically in raising awareness about water conservation. He urged students to play an important role in disseminating information about preserving, conserving and restoring water.
Dr Yadav appealed to people in both urban and rural areas to play a constructive role in water conservation and preservation by avoiding wastage. He mentioned the centrally sponsored Jal Jeevan Mission, which aims to provide potable drinking water to every rural household.
He also appreciated the staff members of the education department who ensured student participation in the awareness rally despite it being a holiday. Officers and lecturers gave speeches on World Water Day and its significance. PHE officials demonstrated how to use a water testing kit to check the suitability and quality of drinking water.
The event was attended by Chief Education Officer, Sudarshan Sharma and from Jal Shakti Deparrment, Executive Engineer, Sunil Sharma, AE, Dewan Chand; IEC Coordinator, Senior Lecturer DIET, Riaz Ahmed Butt besides others.
Government officials and students of GHSS Boys Kishtwar, GHSS Girls, Higher Secondary School Islamia Faridia and teachers of Zone Kishtwar were also present. About 200 students from government and private institutions took part in the rally.
The rally passed through prominent locations in the main town where participants raised awareness about water conservation and various government schemes to provide pure drinking water to households under Jal Jeevan Mission.
Similar awareness rallies, debates, symposiums, drawing competitions and poem recitations were held in schools across Kishtwar district to commemorate World Water Day.
SAMBA: World Water Day was celebrated with enthusiasm at Shahzadpur village in Gho-Brahmana Panchayat today. The event was attended by ADDC Samba, Rajinder Singh besides Executive Engineer of Jal Shakti Department Samba. ADDC Rajinder Singh spoke about World Water Day and encouraged villagers to take full advantage of the scheme.
The programme began with a lecture on World Water Day and the importance of fresh water and sustainable management of resources by lecturers from the higher education department. A Nukkad Natak and awareness programme for Jal Jeevan Mission was also organised by an Implementation Support Agency.
A Paani Samiti was formed at the event and female members were provided with field testing kits to check water quality parameters in their village. AEE Jal Shakti Vijaypur gave a brief overview of Jal Jeevan Mission and its status in the district. Other government officers, as well as members of Implementation Support Agencies for Jal Jeevan Mission were also present on the occasion.