Pune Municipal Corporation Initiates Groundwater Recharge Project in Three Public Gardens
In response to the escalating water demands arising from urbanization and the inclusion of additional villages, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has turned its attention toward groundwater conservation as a strategic solution to address the city’s water challenges. As part of this initiative, PMC has selected three public gardens for a pilot project aimed at actively contributing to groundwater recharge.
PMC’s Dedication to Groundwater Conservation
PMC has recognized the urgency of preserving groundwater reserves and addressing water-related issues in the city. To facilitate effective groundwater conservation efforts, PMC has established a specialized groundwater cell responsible for coordinating initiatives related to groundwater preservation. This includes safeguarding existing groundwater sources, monitoring bore well water extraction, and taking proactive measures to prevent groundwater pollution.
Systematic Survey of Water Bodies
One crucial aspect of PMC’s plan involves conducting a comprehensive survey of water bodies within the city to identify and assess existing groundwater reserves. This systematic evaluation will provide valuable insights into the condition of these resources, allowing PMC to formulate strategic preservation and sustainable utilization plans.
Role of Green Spaces in Groundwater Recharge
PMC has allocated funds to support groundwater recharge initiatives, with particular attention to green spaces within the city. These selected gardens will play a pivotal role in recharging groundwater, ultimately enhancing the overall water availability in Pune.
Expansion to Benefit More Communities
PMC intends to expand similar groundwater recharge initiatives to ponds located in Harantale, Uruli Devachi, Dhayari, and Uttam Nagar. These efforts will further contribute to the groundwater recharge system and bring sustainable and reliable water supplies to the surrounding communities.
Expert Guidance and Funding
Groundwater experts will guide PMC in the pilot project, focusing on three gardens: Ghorpade Garden, Late Jaisingrao Sasane Garden, and Late Vitthalrao Shivarkar Udyan. PMC has allocated Rs 80 lakh for groundwater recharge in these gardens. Additionally, the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) has provided Rs 20 lakh in funding to boost groundwater levels, with selected gardens benefiting from these resources.
Importance of Groundwater Conservation
Amit Herkar, Junior Engineer, emphasized the significance of sustainable water use and conservation, recognizing groundwater as a critical water source for the city that must be preserved and protected.
With these proactive measures, PMC aims to bolster Pune’s groundwater reserves, ensuring a more secure and sustainable water supply for its residents.
