Three Andhra Pradesh Villages Shine as Water Resilience Models
In a positive development for water management, three villages in the coastal district of Prakasam, Andhra Pradesh, have become examples of effective water conservation. As part of the ‘Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari’ campaign, these communities have implemented successful rainwater conservation initiatives, as noted by the Jal Shakti ministry on Thursday.
The villages of Murugummi, Marella, and Thangella have made significant strides in improving groundwater availability. This change is credited to the active participation of the community, which has strengthened local livelihoods and reduced the need for people to migrate due to water scarcity.
In Murugummi, 71 water conservation structures were built, holding about 8.11 lakh cubic meters of water. This has provided irrigation for 264.5 hectares of farmland. Marella constructed 53 structures with a total storage capacity of around 10.04 lakh cubic meters, successfully enhancing agricultural sustainability for 220.5 hectares. Additionally, improvements to community ponds and tanks added 5.95 lakh cubic meters of storage.
Thangella also made progress, with the construction of 71 water conservation structures that can store about 5.89 lakh cubic meters, supporting irrigation for 185.3 hectares. Renovation of traditional water bodies contributed an extra 3.98 lakh cubic meters of water storage.
These efforts have led to improved groundwater levels, benefitting around 5,900 residents with better access to water for daily needs and farming. Previously, the villages struggled with severe water shortages caused by unpredictable rainfall and declining groundwater levels.
The change began through community efforts, including Gram Sabhas, door-to-door awareness campaigns, and workshops. Community members—farmers, women, youth, and local organizations—came together to adopt practices like water budgeting and crop planning, fostering a strong sense of ownership of the initiatives.
Utilizing a ridge-to-valley approach, the villages implemented various rainwater harvesting methods. These included percolation tanks, farm ponds, and rooftop rainwater systems, all focused on capturing and storing rainwater effectively.
This collective effort has not only boosted agricultural productivity but has also enhanced milk production, helping local dairy farmers. The improved water availability has restored soil moisture and reduced the necessity for distress migration as livelihood options have improved.
In recognition of their efforts, Murugummi village received the second-best village panchayat award at the sixth National Water Awards 2024, while Marella ranked among the top 30 villages. Thangella is also in line for national recognition.
These initiatives show that when communities come together, positive change is not just possible, but achievable.
