Shillong: Meghalaya faces an impending water crisis as the main reservoir supplying drinking water, Mawphlang Dam, experiences a significant depletion in water levels due to the ongoing heat waves in the region.
Photos depicting the dwindling water level of the dam have circulated widely on social media platforms, adding to concerns about the situation. The Umiew river, responsible for feeding the dam, is also dwindling rapidly, exacerbating fears of an imminent water shortage in Shillong.
A social media user highlighted that extensive deforestation in the catchment areas of the Umiew river, coupled with the emergence of numerous sand and stone quarries, has significantly contributed to the current water crisis. The land, owned by private parties, has raised environmental concerns.
In response to the crisis, Badarisha M. Lyndem, Chief Engineer of the Public Health Engineering (PHE) Department, issued an advisory urging residents to use water judiciously and adopt water-saving practices.
Lyndem said that due to the ongoing dry weather conditions and “various factors”, the water level at the Mawphlang dam has decreased notably.
While acknowledging the decline in water levels at Mawphlang Dam, Lyndem assured that current storage capacity could sustain water distribution for another three to four months under prevailing conditions.
“In light of this situation, the public are requested to use water judiciously and adopt water-saving practices wherever possible. Conserving water is not just a necessity but a responsibility towards ensuring sustainable water supply for the community”, the official added.
The prolonged dry spell, coupled with rainfall deficiency, has aggravated the situation, with East Khasi Hills experiencing a 20 percent rainfall deficit in April alone.
Deforestation in the Umiew catchment area and rampant stone quarrying further compound the water scarcity issue.
Despite the State’s water policy advocating for measures to protect water catchment areas, no legislative action has been taken thus far. P
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HE Minister Marcuise N. Marak warned of a severe water crisis in Shillong if there is no rainfall for another month. The State government has initiated projects worth Rs 350 crore aimed at rejuvenating vital river catchment areas, including the Umiew and Ganol rivers which serve as lifelines for Shillong and Tura, respectively.
Since March, many parts of Shillong have grappled with severe water scarcity, prompting reliance on private water tankers. Residents are forced to pay between Rs 300 to Rs 1000 for water supplied by these tankers.
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