SGNP plans watershed management to preserve monsoon water

The delayed monsoon is a cause of worry for many as water levels of dams are reducing and may not last for long. Keeping in mind the impending water crisis, Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) has planned a watershed management programme to improve water retaining capacity.

Plans are being made to regulate the flow of water into lakes Vihar and Tulsi by constructing artificial water holes.

Anwar Ahmad, conservator of forest Thane said, "The two lakes are important water sources and regulating flow into these would mean water supply for a longer duration. The water flow pattern would be monitored using GPS instruments inside the park."

Every year, SGNP has been constructing artificial water holes inside the park whenever there is a water scarcity. However, this is the first time that they will use natural water sources. The natural water springs will help animals and the park's vegetation as well.

Talking about the budget and planning, Anwar Ahmad says, "The plan should be made by October end and the budget will also be approved."

Apart from regulating water flow into the lakes, the authorities will also set up measures to check excess de-siltation and preserve them by planting more trees in the surroundings. Through minimum intervention and maximum natural methods, the officials will try to control and preserve the natural available resources. Natural watersheds will be used in an organized manner, so as to ensure plenty of water year-long.

Both, the planning and implementation of the project will be done by forest officials themselves and not the contractors.