Bihar is one such unique state that struggles with both floods and drought together. Many major rivers like Ganga, Kosi, Son, Ghagra, Gandak flow through the state and due to their surplus water, most of the northern part is prone to floods while the other parts have to face drought, year after year.
Severe decline in ground water level was reported in 2019 which created panic among the people. Taking note of this, the Bihar government launched the ‘Jal Jeevan Hariyali Mission’ on 2 October 2019.
In just four years, the achievements of this mission is being appreciated on the International stage. Recently, the mission as well as the state were recognized for afforestation efforts at the 28th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Dubai.
Indian Masterminds spoke to Mr. Rahul Kumar, Mission Director of Jal Jeevan Hariyali Mission to get more details.
12.18 CRORES SAPLINGS PLANTED
After the launch of Jal Jeevan Hariyali mission more than 12.18 crores saplings have been planted across the state, on the sides of water bodies, national and state highways. This massive plantation drive has led to significant increase of forest cover in the state.
According to the Forest Survey of India Report 2022, there has been 1.03% increase in the green region between 2019 -2021. However, increase of green cover is just one component of this mission. It also includes rejuvenation and construction of water bodies (ahar pynes, ponds and wells).
With removal of encroachments and renovation of more than 1,36616 water bodies, the ground water level was increased by 5 billion cubic meter in comparison to 2020, according to the report of Central Water Board report of 2022.
“Climate change is a pressing global concern with significant implications for environment, society and economy. Bihar is prone to both floods and drought. Under such circumstances, with a multi-pronged strategy and shared responsibilities of various government departments as shareholders, JJHM is showing a promising way to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change,” said Mr. Kumar.
RENOVATION OF 114212+ WATER BODIES
Pakri Pokhar in Sarmastpur village, Sakra block, Muzaffapur was field with encroachments and waterlogging was an issue. Due to this, the land around the Pokhar was unused for many years. After the identification of this pond, eight feet excavation was done and soil was spread over the embankment. An inlet was constructed to make way for the water from the waterlogged area to an agricultural field. An outlet was also constructed to avoid pressure. Two hundred plants of Guava, Amla, Teak and Mango were planted on the banks of this pond.
This is just one case. In last four years, 22404 ponds, ahar pynes and wells have been identified and made encroachment free. Whereas, more than 114212 water bodies have been rejuvenated, while work is going on in around 5000 other ponds, wells and ahar pynes.
LIVELIHOOD CREATION
The mission has also helped to created livelihood opportunities for thousands of people in the state. Most of the rejuvenation work has been done by the SHG women known as JEEVIKA didi. They are also responsible for maintaining them too. The rejuvenation has also helped in increase of aquaculture.
RECOGNITION
This mission helped Bihar to secure 3rd Rank in the 4th National Water Awards and Jal Jeevan Hariyali Portal also got the Excellence for e-Governnance Award in Project category.
