Members of the Assolna gram sabha raise their hands in support of a resolution to protect the traditional water bodies.
MARGAO
The special gram sabha of the village panchayat of Assolna on Sunday has resolved to safeguard the traditional water bodies in the State.
The special gram sabha has adopted a unanimous resolution to protect the traditional water bodies, namely Patchea Bhand/ Torrem located in Land Survey No. 82, Moddorachea Torrem located in Land Survey No. 99 and Maxhnea Haind located in Land Survey No. 117.
The members pointed out that these water bodies, along with their catchment areas, must be recognised and protected as integral parts of our ecological system.
“We resolve that traditionally, the sluice/weir of these water bodies should be closed early in September after the harvest of Kharif paddy and reopened in May before the onset of the monsoon by the Water Resources Department (WRD). Due to neglect, the embankments surrounding the catchment areas and the subsequent nullahs connected to the ponds have deteriorated over the years,” the resolution stated.
The members urged the WRD to undertake a comprehensive study, supervised by senior villagers and the Biodiversity Committee, to initiate the necessary strengthening and repair work of the embankments. “We resolve that the water from these bodies is crucial not only for irrigation but also for groundwater augmentation, which maintains water levels in village wells. Moreover, these water bodies support complex biodiversity, protecting local flora and fauna and providing breeding and feeding grounds for migratory birds,” the resolution stated.
The gram sabha members also emphasise the historical and cultural significance of these water bodies, which have been integral to our community for generations. “To ensure their preservation, we propose the formation of a local monitoring committee comprising villagers, particularly senior citizens with knowledge of traditional practices, to oversee maintenance efforts,” the resolution stated.
The members suggested conducting regular workshops and educational programmes for villagers and schoolchildren to raise awareness about the ecological importance of these water bodies. Calling upon the government to provide specific funds for the repair and maintenance of these areas, the members resolved for the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices that can coexist with the preservation of these water bodies.
