Over 12 crore litres of surplus water flowing in the Sarasvati channel have found a purposeful destination through the strategic efforts of the Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board (HSHDB). Three ponds, namely Bohli, Marcheheri, and Rampura, have been developed to store this excess water during the recent floods.
This proactive initiative has played a crucial role in reducing the flow of water in the Sarasvati channel, preventing the inundation of Thanesar City. This article delves into the significance of this water storage system, its impact on flood prevention, and the improvement of groundwater levels in Haryana.
The Problem of Surplus Water
The Sarasvati channel, during monsoons, receives a substantial influx of water that often leads to wastage and flooding in the region. While the abundant water may seem like a boon, it posed challenges for the area’s infrastructure, agriculture, and residents’ safety.
The Role of the Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board
To tackle the issue of surplus water, the HSHDB took the initiative of creating three ponds near the banks of the Sarasvati channel. These ponds were designed to channelize and tap the excess water, effectively preventing flooding and making productive use of the resource.
Water Storage in Bohli Pond
The Bohli pond has served as a reservoir, storing over 8 crore litres of water during the recent floods. This efficient storage prevented the water from inundating Thanesar City and its surrounding colonies, thereby mitigating potential damages.
Marcheheri and Rampura Ponds
The Marcheheri and Rampura ponds also played a vital role in flood control, accumulating approximately 2.8 crore litres and 1.73 crore litres of water, respectively. Together, these ponds significantly reduced the flow of water in the Sarasvati channel during the deluge.
Groundwater Improvement
Muneesh Babbar, the Executive Engineer of the board, emphasized the positive impact of these ponds on the groundwater level. The stored water will gradually be absorbed by the land, replenishing the groundwater reserves and benefiting the region’s agriculture and water supply.
Expansion of the Initiative
Dhuman Singh, the vice-chairman of the board, highlighted the board’s vision for further development. The HSHDB aims to create at least nine more ponds in Yamunanagar, Kurukshetra, and Kaithal districts.
Additionally, they proposed the development of water bodies near other rivers and canals, including Tangri, Markanda, and Ghaggar, to prevent future floods and enhance groundwater levels.
Social and Environmental Impact
The ponds’ development has shown that pragmatic and cost-effective solutions can be implemented to protect people, livestock, and crops from recurrent flood cycles. By preventing financial losses and minimizing the impact of floods, these efforts enhance the region’s overall resilience.
Conclusion
The Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board’s strategic approach to store surplus water in Bohli, Marcheheri, and Rampura ponds has proven to be an effective solution to curb floods in the region. The initiative not only prevents the wastage of water but also aids in replenishing the groundwater, benefitting agriculture and sustaining the local ecosystem.
With further expansion and replication of such initiatives along other rivers and canals, Haryana can continue its journey towards a more flood-resilient and water-secure future.
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FAQs
How does storing surplus water in ponds prevent floods?
Storing surplus water in ponds reduces the volume of water flowing in rivers and channels, preventing overwhelming floods during heavy rainfall.
What is the primary aim of the Haryana Sarasvati Heritage Development Board?
The primary aim of the board is to improve groundwater levels by channelizing and tapping surplus water in the Sarasvati channel.
How does storing water in ponds benefit the groundwater level?
The stored water gradually seeps into the ground, recharging the aquifers and improving the groundwater level.
How can similar initiatives be replicated in other regions?
Other regions can create ponds or reservoirs near rivers and canals to store surplus water and mitigate the impact of floods.
What other rivers and canals can benefit from such water storage projects?
Apart from the Sarasvati channel, rivers like Tangri, Markanda, and Ghaggar can also benefit from similar water storage initiatives.