Water Initiative

There are different activities taken up under this initiative namely Rainwater harvesting, and Gramoday – where the final objective remains the protection and promotion of the health of rural school children, teachers and villagers by making clean water and other facilities available to them. To find a long-term sustainable solution to deal with scarcity of water needs to be found. With this in mind, Seva Sahayog, under Project Water Initiative decided to build or clean water ponds in villages and this should help in providing continuous water supply to the villagers.

Water well construction was undertaken in Pohre village in the Chalisgaon district. The construction of this well revitalized around 30/35 surrounding wells and benefitted approximately 100/150 hectares of land. Today, the village has around 79,62,000 liters of water are available with them.

Similarly, a disturbing observation is about the sanitation facilities available in rural schools. This is one of the reasons for increased absenteeism, especially among girls. To deal with this, Seva Sahayog thought of constructing toilets in schools inremote villages.

Under the Gramoday initiative, 47 villages have been selected for water conservation work. It started involving geologists in watershed work and formed a Paani Samiti in 26 villages which has 5-10 members. Seva Sahayog has started a new concept “One village One Pond”- In this, we have rejuvenated 7 ponds.

Objectives

To improve access to clean water for rural communities
To promote water-efficient farming practices, and improving access to water for livestock
To promote sustainable water management practices, such as rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and watershed management.

Impact

The most important change that the project has brought about is the betterment of the health of students as well as teachers. All schools have been given financial support for plumbing and electrical work required to keep the water supply uninterrupted.
The rainwater harvesting project is operational in Raigad, Wada, and Palghar, thereby refurbishing the diminishing groundwater levels.
Similarly, a proper sanitation facility is one primary need for better surroundings and good health as well. The construction of toilets in school makes the life of
students are easier and healthier, especially for girls.

Water Initiative