The Indian Railways will dig ponds as part of the Union government’s Mission Amrit Sarovar that aims to address the critical issue of water scarcity in the country.
| Photo Credit: E. LAKSHMI NARAYANAN
The Indian Railways will dig ponds as part of the Union government’s Mission Amrit Sarovar that aims to address the critical issue of water scarcity in the country.
Amrit Sarovar was launched in April 2022 with the ambitious goal of constructing or rejuvenating 75 ponds in each district of the country. The project made significant progress and as of October 2024, more than 68,000 ponds have been completed, rejuvenating surface and groundwater availability in various regions. These ponds have not only addressed immediate water needs but also established sustainable water resources.
The phase two of the mission was launched with a renewed focus on ensuring water availability, with community participation (Jan Bhagidaari) at its core. It aims to strengthen climate resilience, foster ecological balance, and deliver lasting benefits for future generations.
As part of these initiatives, the government roped in the Railways for desilting, excavating identified waterbodies or constructing new ones at suitable sites in the vicinity of railway lines.
Railway authorities were told to request the respective district authorities to identify possible sites for the creation of new waterbodies near railway worksites.
The excavated material would be used in railway embankments, wherever the quality of the soil is found suitable for rail construction.
The Railways would work in close coordination with the Rural Development Ministry.
The Union government has sent letters to the Chief Secretaries of all States and Union Territories on the role of the Railways in Mission Amrit Sarovar, sources said, adding that a substantial number of ponds would be rejuvenated or constructed by August 15, 2025.
Published – March 12, 2025 10:30 pm IST