Gyalshing, September 30 (IPR): A Jal Mahotsav was observed at 15-Yangtey Gram Panchayat Unit (GPU) under the theme, “Community Ownership and Sustainable Water Management”, today with emphasis on protection of water sources, conservation of drinking water and responsible use of available resources.
District Collector-cum-Chairman, District Water and Sanitation Mission (DWSM) Committee, Gyalshing, Mr Tenzing D. Denzongpa, attended the programme as the Chief Guest.
Addressing the gathering, DC Gyalshing stressed that protection of water sources and proper upkeep of existing water infrastructure require the collective efforts of the Panchayat, line departments and the community. Referring to the issues raised by the Panchayat, he assured that necessary support would be extended and emphasised the need to keep water sources and supply systems functional, keeping future requirements in view.
Panchayat President, 15-Yangtey GPU, Mr K.B. Limboo, spoke on the need for community ownership in protecting local water sources and ensuring their continued use and maintenance.
BDO, Gyalshing, Mr Garap D. Bhutia, called for greater involvement of the Panchayat and the community in the conservation and rejuvenation of water sources. He stressed the need for judicious use of drinking water and regular maintenance of water infrastructure. He also spoke on the possibility of community contributions towards repair and development of water sources and related infrastructure, wherever required.
A live water-quality testing demonstration was conducted by the Barefoot Engineers using a Field Testing Kit (FTK), showing the process of testing drinking water at the field level.
Students of Government Senior Secondary School, Sakyong, presented cultural performances and took part in the programme through a poem on water and nature and a speech on the role of youth in water conservation.
Officials and personnel associated with water and sanitation activities were also felicitated for their contribution and services. Those felicitated included Junior Faculty Mr Siva Pandey, Junior Engineer Mr Sachin Thatal and the Panchayat Development Assistant (PDA) of 15-Yangtey GPK, Barefoot Engineers and Safai Mitra among others.
The programme was attended by Divisional Engineer, Rural Development Department, Gyalshing, Ms Priya Kharka; DIO, IPRD, Gyalshing, Mr Rajen Tamang; Principal, Government Senior Secondary School, Sakyong, Mr Laxmi Gurung; Panchayat members, officials, teachers, students, SHGs and local residents.
The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Panchayat Member Mr Dilin Rai.
Report from DIO Gyalshing