Srinagar, June 2: Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, on Monday reviewed the progress of Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Abhiyan 2.0 under the Jal Shakti Abhiyan–Catch the Rain Campaign and directed all stakeholder departments to strengthen efforts towards water conservation and sustainable water management across the district.

Chairing a meeting at the DC Office Complex, the Deputy Commissioner stressed the need for effective inter-departmental coordination to ensure timely completion of ongoing works and the creation of sustainable rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge systems.
The meeting was attended by ADDC Rifat Aftab Qureshi, CPO Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Joint Commissioner SMC Suhai-ul-Islam, Superintending Engineer Hydraulic Er. Ambreen Anjum, ACD Tariq Ahmad, SDM East Zubair Ahmad, and senior officials from various departments.
Emphasising water conservation as a shared responsibility, the DC directed the Jal Shakti Department to continue geo-tagging water sources and recharge structures while providing technical assistance to Panchayats for identifying suitable conservation interventions. He also called for intensified awareness campaigns to promote sustainable water management and community participation.
Labroo instructed the Education Department to encourage rooftop rainwater harvesting in educational institutions and identify “Jal Doots” and “Student Water Champions” to spread awareness among students.
The Agriculture Department was asked to promote micro-irrigation and water-efficient farming practices, while the Irrigation and Flood Control Department was directed to prioritise watershed management, rejuvenation of water bodies, desilting of canals and ponds, and development of groundwater recharge structures.
The Rural Development Department was instructed to utilise MGNREGA for creating rainwater harvesting structures, soak pits, village ponds and greywater management facilities, besides conducting awareness programmes at the Panchayat level.
Similarly, the Forest Department was directed to undertake plantation drives and support water body conservation efforts, while the Housing and Urban Development Department was asked to promote rooftop rainwater harvesting and rejuvenation of urban water bodies.
The ICDS Department was also directed to strengthen community outreach through Anganwadi Centres and enhance the participation of women in water conservation initiatives.
The Deputy Commissioner called for a proactive and coordinated approach to ensure the successful implementation of the campaign and long-term sustainability of water resources in the district.