This Policy is adopted pursuant to section 4 of the Jammu and Kashmir Water Resources (Regulation and Management) Act, 2010. The objectives of the Policy include coping with demand of water for all purposes; addressing ecosystem and environmental concerns; managing irrigation projects; preventing over exploitation of ground water; encouraging recycling and reuse of water; and promoting water conservation. The water allocation priorities are drinking water, irrigation, generation of electricity, ecology and industries, in that order. The Policy discusses the legal water framework and proposed actions for climate change adaptation. It also identifies the need to enhance water availability by mapping aquifers, involving local communities, incentivizing efficient water use, artificial recharging and integrated watershed development. The Policy states that conservation of rivers, river corridors, water bodies and associated infrastructure would be undertaken in a scientifically planned manner through community participation. It emphasises on water related data collection to develop a strong database for informed decision making in the management of water. The Policy proposes developing a master plan for flood prone areas containing measures to control the floods and provide protection with flood forecasting for early warning to people. For ground water recharging, an integrated watershed management approach will be undertaken. The Policy indicates measures for the promotion of water conservation and highlights the importance of preservation of traditional water resources. It lays down the action plan with respect to irrigation. The Policy states that every project must include measures for prevention of water pollution and water quality testing laboratories. For drought prone areas, it states that pastures, forestry or other modes of development with relatively less water demand would be encouraged. In planning water resource development projects, the needs of drought prone areas would be given priority.
Jammu et Cachemire (Inde) · 2017-10-25