SHILLONG : In a major step towards tackling water scarcity, the Meghalaya government is focusing on long-term solutions such as afforestation and rainwater trenching to revive drying rivers and streams across the state.
PHE Minister Marcuise N Marak said that several projects aimed at water source rejuvenation are already underway, but emphasized that restoring natural water systems requires sustained and long-term efforts.
“Some of the projects are already on the job,” Marak said, adding that the rejuvenation of rivers and streams cannot be achieved through short-term measures.
🌱 Afforestation at the Core
The government is actively promoting large-scale tree plantation drives as part of its strategy to restore water sources.
According to the Minister, afforestation plays a crucial role in improving groundwater recharge, preventing soil erosion, and maintaining ecological balance in water catchment areas.
He noted that these efforts are aligned with the Centre’s Catch the Rain initiative, which encourages water conservation at the source.
🌧️ Rainwater Trenches to Recharge Groundwater
Alongside plantation efforts, the government is also constructing trenches in various locations to capture rainwater runoff.
Marak explained that these trenches help retain rainwater where it falls, allowing it to gradually seep into the soil and recharge underground water reserves.
“So to catch the rain where it falls, we are creating trenches. That is also helping a lot because the moment the rain is coming, it goes inside the trenches and it seeps into the subsoil. That is how the rejuvenation process begins,” he said.
💧 Long-Term Vision for Water Security
The PHE department’s approach signals a shift towards sustainable and eco-friendly solutions rather than short-term fixes.
By combining afforestation with rainwater harvesting techniques, the government aims to ensure long-term water availability and revive critical natural water sources across Meghalaya.
🌍 A Sustainable Path Forward
The initiative is expected to not only address water shortages but also strengthen environmental conservation efforts in the state.
As climate challenges continue to impact water resources, Meghalaya’s strategy highlights the importance of community-driven and nature-based solutions for a secure water future.