Bhararisain: In a landmark effort to combat the escalating water crisis in Uttarakhand, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, along with Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan, inaugurated the “Direct Injection Water Source Recharge Scheme” today at the Vidhan Sabha Bhawan in Bhararisain. This innovative initiative has been developed in collaboration with Swami Ram Himalayan University, Jolly Grant, aiming to rejuvenate groundwater resources using advanced technological methods.
Photo Collection “Vibrant Birds of Kotdwar” Released
At the launch event, a photo collection titled “Vibrant Birds of Kotdwar” was also unveiled, highlighting the state’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Leaders Emphasize Importance of Water Conservation
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Dhami emphasized the government’s resolve to tackle water scarcity through innovation. “The state government is committed to overcoming the water crisis through technological innovations. This is a significant effort in the field of water conservation,” he said.
Assembly Speaker Ritu Khanduri Bhushan added, “Water conservation is not just an environmental necessity, but the lifeline of Uttarakhand’s future. Groundwater recharge will be the foundation of future water security. This scheme will prove to be a milestone in sustainable water management.”
Scheme to Recharge Groundwater by Reviving Hand Pumps
The scheme will utilize treated rainwater to revive inactive hand pumps by directly injecting water into underground reservoirs, thus replenishing groundwater levels. The first phase focuses on reactivating 20 hand pumps in the Gairsain and Chaukhutia blocks, regions that have been severely affected by declining water tables.
Collaboration between Government and Academia
This initiative is a product of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on July 8, 2025, between the International Institute of Parliamentary Studies, Research and Training, Bhararisain, and Swami Ram Himalayan University.
Technical Presentation Highlights Project Details
A detailed technical presentation was delivered by the university’s expert team, including Prof. H.P. Uniyal, Nitesh Kaushik, Sujit Thapliyal, Rajkumar Verma, Atul Uniyal, Abhishek Uniyal, and Shakti Bhatt. They explained the method of filtering rainwater and channeling it into groundwater reservoirs. A documentary featuring successful pilot projects from villages in Gairsain was also screened, showcasing the scheme’s potential impact.
Officials and Ministers Attend Launch Event
The event saw the participation of Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal, Agriculture Minister Ganesh Joshi, several MLAs, senior Assembly Secretariat officials, departmental secretaries, and representatives from Swami Ram Himalayan University.
Uttarakhand Leads the Way in Sustainable Water Management
With this forward-looking approach, Uttarakhand is poised to set an example in sustainable water resource management by combining traditional wisdom with modern technology.
