Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 21 April 2025
In a proactive step toward pre-monsoon preparedness, the Andaman Public Works Department (APWD) has rolled out a month-long island-wide campaign to promote water quality monitoring, conservation, and rejuvenation of water bodies across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The initiative aims to generate widespread awareness and foster active community participation, particularly involving school students, public representatives, and women stakeholders.
The campaign will be executed in four structured phases, each focusing on a critical aspect of water management.
Phase 1: Water Quality Monitoring and Awareness
In the initial phase, water samples from households, Anganwadi centres, public buildings, and community spaces will be collected and tested. The findings will be uploaded to the Jal Jeevan Mission’s Water Quality Information Management Information System (WQIMIS) portal.
Women representatives, including Anganwadi Workers, ASHA Workers, and elderly women from villages, will be equipped with Field Testing Kits (FTKs) to promote water quality awareness and empower local monitoring.
APWD’s Junior Engineers will also conduct educational sessions for school students and facilitate visits to water treatment plants and supply infrastructure to deepen understanding of the water treatment process.
Phase 2: Cleaning and Rejuvenation of Water Sources
This phase will focus on the physical upkeep of water bodies. Activities such as cleaning, de-silting, and minor repairs will be undertaken to prepare water sources for the monsoon. Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members have been urged to lead cleaning drives, especially around Amrit Sarovars within their respective jurisdictions.
Phase 3: PRI Orientation and Household Awareness
In the third phase, PRI members will visit water treatment facilities to understand purification and distribution processes. Panchayats will also host awareness meetings to promote Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) and Grey Water Management at the household level, encouraging responsible water use.
Phase 4: “Zero Leakage Week”
The final phase of the campaign will be observed as “Zero Leakage Week.” During this period, the Department will identify and repair leakages in the water distribution system to ensure efficient supply and minimize wastage.
Creative Engagement in Schools
To foster a culture of conservation among the youth, the Department of Education has been requested to conduct painting, essay, and poetry competitions on the theme “Efficient Use of Water” in all schools. The top three entries in each category from every school will be awarded to encourage creative expression and involvement in water conservation efforts.