The Indian Railways has become a key player in the Union Government’s Mission Amrit Sarovar, which was launched in April 2022 to address water scarcity and improve groundwater recharge across the country. The mission’s goal is to create or restore 75 ponds in each district, focusing on community engagement (Jan Bhagidari) and building climate resilience. By October 2024, over 68,000 ponds are expected to be revitalized. In the second phase, the Indian Railways will take on tasks like desilting, excavating, and constructing new water bodies near railway lines, using the excavated materials to strengthen railway embankments.
Mission Amrit Sarovar
- Launched: April 2022
- Objective: Construct or rejuvenate 75 ponds in each district to address water scarcity.
- Progress so far: 68,000+ ponds completed by October 2024.
- Phase 2 focus: Strengthening climate resilience and community participation (Jan Bhagidari).
The Role of Indian Railways
• Desilting and excavating water bodies.
• Creating new ponds alongside railway lines.
• Repurposing the excavated soil for railway embankments and various infrastructure projects.
• Partnering with the Rural Development Ministry and local authorities to pinpoint the right locations.
• Target for Phase 2: Completion by August 15, 2025.
Benefits of Indian Railways’ Involvement
- Boost groundwater recharge and surface water availability.
- Support climate resilience and ecological balance.
- Reduce soil disposal issues by using excavated material for railway embankments.
- Strengthen inter-departmental coordination between Railways and Rural Development Ministry.
- Involve local communities (Jan Bhagidari) for long-term maintenance.
