Dehradun: Important steps are being taken in the state to conserve water and revive natural water sources. In this regard, a high-level committee meeting of the Spring and River Rejuvenation Authority (SARA) was held under the chairmanship of Chief Secretary Anand Bardhan.
During the meeting, detailed discussions were held on the progress and future action plan of various initiatives related to watershed development, conservation of water bodies, afforestation, and the revival of traditional mountain water sources such as naulas and dharas.
Review of Song and Kamal River Projects
The committee reviewed the progress of important projects related to the Song River in Dehradun and the Kamal River in Uttarkashi. The implementation status of directions issued during the previous meeting held on April 23, 2025, was also discussed.
Instructions to Prepare Detailed Plan for Song River
The Chief Secretary directed officials to conduct surveys in areas connected to the Song River and identify locations where conservation and restoration work is needed. Based on the findings, concerned agencies will prepare a Detailed Project Report (DPR).
He also emphasized the need for scientific evaluation of the project’s impact after its implementation and suggested exploring collaboration with technical institutions, particularly Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee.
Focus on Conservation of Traditional Water Sources
The Chief Secretary instructed districts to identify ancient and traditional naulas and dharas and ensure their conservation and revival through scientific methods while preserving their original structure.
Water Conservation Through CAMPA Fund
Officials were also directed to implement water conservation and environmental protection works effectively in forest areas through coordination among departments using funds from the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
The meeting was attended by Secretary Dilip Jawalkar, C Ravishankar, Additional Secretaries Himanshu Khurana, Apoorva Pandey, Kehkashan Naseem, along with officials from various departments.
