Remove contractors from Jalyukt Shivar: Waterman

Stockholm Water Prize winner of 2015, Rajendra Singh believes that only if Maharashtra eliminates the use of contractors in the work carried out under the Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan, can the state face relief from droughts.

Mr Singh, also known as the ‘Waterman of India’, said, “The Jalyukt Shivar should ideally be a community-based scheme. Only then can it make a real difference within a short span of time. Hiring contractors for the scheme related work will only result in loss of money as they favour Lakshmi (money) over Saraswati (wisdom).” Mr Singh’s methods in Rajasthan have prevented floods, restored soil and rivers, and even brought back wildlife.

In the backdrop of an international climate change conference held at Thakur College of Science and Commerce in Kandivali on Tuesday, the 56-year-old water conservationist spoke to The Asian Age on how the state has the capacity to overcome drought even in a year’s time.

“Among other drought-affected states, Maharashtra has the most potential to revive its water security,” Mr Singh said. Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had approached him to revive traditional water resources in the state and, according to Mr Singh, he had given the same advice to the chief minister.

“The methods that I had applied in Rajasthan, including regeneration of subsurface and underground aquifer, building of johads (rainwater storage tanks) and small dams are usually on small tributaries uphill can be effectively used in Maharashtra and I have discussed the same with the state’s chief minister,” the award-winning water conservationist said. Mr Singh also said that the Maharashtra government has so far maintained a steady communication with him and talks are underway over executing some of his successful plans from Rajasthan, in the state.

“If the state follows a community driven approach and the maximum possible use is made of people’s traditional technology then Maharashtra will definitely see a positive impact against drought within a year,” said Mr Singh.

He also stressed that if the role of contractors and engineers in such works cannot be eliminated, but they should be minimised to just consultation.

“Raw materials should be acquired locally and if at all engineers are required, they should be used for just risk assessment. The community leaders should be in charge of the projects and not contractors and engineers who have vested interests,” Mr Singh said.

“The government should also work towards identifying, demarcating and notifying the water bodies in the state. Only then can existing resources be protected and encroached water bodies be retrieved and revived,” he added.