Senior officials in Karnataka have issued a clear directive to the state's water resources engineers: ensure that the significant portion of the budget allocated to their department translates into tangible benefits for the people. The call was made during the inauguration of the 'Jal-Sankalp-25' conference in Dharwad.
Major Budget Allocation Demands Accountability
Addressing the gathering of engineers organized by the Water and Land Management Institute (WALMI), Additional Chief Secretary Gaurav Gupta highlighted that a major share of the state budget is dedicated to projects under the water resources department. He emphasized that it is imperative for the public to see the results of this substantial investment.
Gupta pointed out the critical need for enhancing water-use efficiency across the board. He stressed that all stakeholders, including water users, cooperative societies, the Command Area Development Authority (CADA), the agriculture department, WALMI, and the engineers themselves, must work in seamless coordination to achieve this goal.
Empowering Engineers with Legal Tools and Skills
The conference outlined several key measures to strengthen water governance. Gupta announced that amendments have been made to the Karnataka Irrigation Act to prevent the unauthorized lifting of water from canals and to ensure efficient management. As part of this reform, legal powers are being formally vested with engineers on the ground.
To support realistic project planning, the finance department will issue necessary guidelines for preparing cost estimates. Engineers were urged to complete all projects within stipulated deadlines and to enhance their technical skills by adopting innovative technologies.
In a move to bolster grassroots institutions, the government is forming a state-level federation for water users' cooperative societies. Gupta called on engineers to understand their heightened responsibilities and discharge their duties with diligence.
Call for Compassion and Community Connection
K Jayaprakash, technical advisor to the deputy chief minister, highlighted the acute challenge of water scarcity. He noted that while management is easy when water is abundant, the current scenario demands judicious and proper management. He advised engineers to use their newly granted legal powers wisely.
Jayaprakash described farmers as "scientists" and "magicians" who produce food from the soil while battling climatic uncertainties. He urged officials to have "compassionate hearts and perceptive eyes" towards their struggles.
Echoing the sentiment, Water Resources Department Secretary Ejaz Hussain advised engineers to stay directly connected with local communities, understand field-level challenges, and patiently listen to farmers' grievances. He emphasized the need for continuous learning to enhance technical knowledge.
Transforming Water Conservation into a People's Movement
In his introductory address, WALMI Director Girish Maraddi outlined a broader vision. He stated that alongside managing irrigation in command areas, it is essential to create public awareness about water conservation at the village level. This awareness, he said, must be instilled in students from an early age.
Maraddi advocated for fostering a sense of ownership with the mantra "our canal – our water – our soil". The ultimate goal, he concluded, is to transform the water conservation drive into a widespread people's movement across Karnataka.
