Vidya Bharati Alumni Chhagan Lal fights for the conservation of water in Rajasthan

India is facing one of its major and most serious water crisis in recent history. Weak and irregular monsoons have led to nearly 50 per cent of India grappling with drought-like conditions. Excessive groundwater pumping, an inefficient and wasteful water management system, rampant deforestation, changing climatic conditions and years of deficient rains are all contributors to this dire situation. The conditions are more severe in drier parts of our country. 

In the state of Rajasthan, which has always struggled with water deficiency, the situation is slowly become worse. According to a study conducted by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), there has been a decline in groundwater by 62.70% in recent years. Many areas in the state has come under dark zones giving a sign of warning to formulate new policies for the maintenance of groundwater level.

Chhagan Lal an alumnus of Adarsh Vidya Mandir Gagariya Station, and a graduate student, has experienced the problem first hand. According to him, he has seen the women from his family walking 3-4 kilometers with heavy pots each day to fetch water from wells which hardly meets their household needs. 

To combat this situation he has set up without help from any outside agency, 3 water tanks that serves more than 130 people. Apart from providing relief to people and animals from water scarcity, he is involved with the spread of public awareness regarding water conservation. He and his team also aims towards increasing the number of tree plantations in the area of Gagariya Station, Rajasthan. Apart from water management, Chhagan Lal has constructed shelters for animals  to save them from Rajasthan’s blistering heat.

Chhagan, says that he will continue his efforts till he sees continuous positive impact and is thankful towards his school for installing in him the will power to fight for the needs of others. According to him, the blessings of those who have benefited from his efforts are his truest achievements.

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