Awareness campaigns on water conservation and rainwater harvesting under Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari conducted across Nagaland.
DIMAPUR — Awareness campaigns on rainwater harvesting and water conservation on the nationwide Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative, themed "Catch the rain", were organised in Chiephobozou, Atoizu, and Chümoukedima on July 27.
Chiephobozou: In Chiephobozou, the campaign was held at the Town Council Hall. Organised by the Chiephobozou Town Council, the event aimed to promote water conservation and rainwater harvesting.
According to a DIPR report, delivering the keynote address, Additional Deputy Commissioner and Executive Officer of the Chiephobozou Town Council, Vekusheyi Rhakho, highlighted the objectives and significance of the event.
He pointed out that although Nagaland receives rainfall well above the global average, a significant portion of it is lost due to surface runoff without being adequately harvested. He stated that with proper planning, the state has immense potential to address its water needs and ensure greater water security.
Rhakho noted that Chiephobozou and surrounding areas face recurring water supply challenges, making rainwater harvesting especially important. He appreciated the efforts of the local community, observing that their rainwater harvesting initiatives are among the most extensive in the state, and encouraged them to turn water conservation into a sustained community campaign.
He also noted that the indigenous water management practices of Kikrüma village, particularly the traditional 'Zabo' system which integrates rainwater harvesting, water conservation, and agricultural practices, is a good example of community-based water management.
The resource person, Kethosenou Usou, Junior Engineer of the Public Health Engineering department (PHED), elaborated on the optimum utilisation of harvested rainwater for drinking, domestic purposes, and agriculture. She explained that various methods of rainwater harvesting, groundwater conservation, and building recharge structures help improve groundwater availability and long-term water security.
An interactive session followed where participants discussed water scarcity and the need for localised conservation measures. Street mural paintings on the theme 'Catch the rain' were also conducted at prominent locations in the town.
Atoizu: In Atoizu, the awareness programme was organised at the DBs' Hall.
Welcoming the gathering, Ivuka Katty, Deputy Chairman of the Atoizu Town Council, highlighted the importance of public awareness and collective efforts in promoting rainwater harvesting to address water scarcity.
The keynote address was delivered by Liza Sumi, Junior Engineer in the Water Resources Department, Zunheboto. She spoke on the growing need to conserve water through sustainable practices, explaining the principles and methods of rainwater harvesting. An interactive session followed, allowing participants to seek clarifications and share local water issues.
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Samuel Akho Konyak P, Extra Assistant Commissioner of Atoizu, called upon participants to practise the knowledge gained and spread awareness in their churches, organisations, and families.
Chümoukedima: The Chümoukedima Town Council organised its awareness programme at the deputy commissioner’s conference hall in Chümoukedima.
The programme was chaired by Khriengunuo Theunuo, Extra Assistant Commissioner (Headquarters) at the DC office. Resource persons included Hutovi Swu, Executive Engineer in the Water Resources department, and Longchendi Wati Longchar, Junior Engineer in the PHED.
They highlighted the importance of rainwater harvesting, efficient water use, and practical measures for household and community levels.
Delivering the closing remarks, Lhousito Khro, Chairman of the Chümoukedima Town Council, encouraged citizens to actively adopt rainwater harvesting practices to protect water resources for future generations.