Ranchi: Jharkhand is set to undertake a large-scale water conservation initiative with the construction of around 6,000 earthen check dams in its forest regions. The project aims to improve groundwater recharge, enhance water availability, and support wildlife ecosystems across the state’s forest belt.
Check Dams to Strengthen Forest Water Systems
The check dams will be built by bunding small streams flowing down from hilly forest areas. This will help in:
- Retaining surface water in forest zones
- Improving groundwater recharge
- Maintaining soil moisture levels
- Enhancing green cover in forest regions
Officials said the structures will be completed before the onset of the monsoon.
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Reliable Water Source for Wildlife and Ecology
Central environmental expert Dinesh Trivedi, who has worked on similar models in the Bandhavgarh forest region, said the check dams will provide easily accessible water sources for wildlife during summer.
He added that improved soil moisture will lead to:
- Increased vegetation
- Higher forest biomass
- Better ecological balance
The state also plans to repair and restore thousands of existing check dams in forest areas.
Groundwater Recharge to Increase Water Availability
Geology expert and Ranchi University professor Nitish Priyadarshi said the initiative could significantly increase water availability in Jharkhand.
He estimated that the project may enhance water storage by nearly one lakh million litres, helping maintain long-term groundwater recharge. He also noted that deforestation and encroachment have damaged natural water recharge systems, which can now be revived through these low-cost structures.
Support for Livelihood and Fisheries Development
The check dams are also expected to create new livelihood opportunities in rural and forest communities.
Officials said the water bodies can be used for:
- Fish farming activities
- Employment generation through village committees
- Expansion of rural income sources
Similar large water bodies in forest regions are already being used for fisheries, and the same model will be extended to these new structures.
Eco-Friendly Step Towards Sustainable Forest Management
The project combines environmental conservation with rural development by:
- Strengthening forest ecosystems
- Supporting biodiversity
- Enhancing water security
- Creating local employment opportunities
It is being seen as a sustainable approach to restore Jharkhand’s natural water systems.
