What does India's water census say about Madhya Pradesh?

One of the states covered under the water census was Madhya Pradesh, located in the central region of India.

By Florence Das 19 May 2023

New Update

What does India's water census say about Madhya Pradesh?

India has recently conducted its first Water Census, a groundbreaking survey of the country's water resources, usage patterns, and conservation measures. The Ministry of Jal Shakti, the government body responsible for water resources in India, conducted the census across all 7180 blocks in the country. One of the states covered under the census was Madhya Pradesh, located in the central region of India.

Madhya Pradesh is a state renowned for its rich natural resources, including its rivers, which provide life to its population of over 72 million people. The water census in Madhya Pradesh revealed some interesting insights into the state's water resources, usage patterns, and conservation measures.

Abundant water resources in Madhya Pradesh

The census covered 230 blocks in Madhya Pradesh and collected data from 1,79,551 habitations. One of the critical parameters that the census focused on was the availability of water in the state. The census revealed that Madhya Pradesh has a total water availability of 68,157.60 million cubic meters (MCM).

Surface water accounted for the majority of the water availability, with 59,527.68 MCM, while groundwater accounted for 8,629.92 MCM. The census also highlighted that Madhya Pradesh has 105 rivers, with the Narmada river being the largest.

publive-image — ^{Bridge Over Satna River, Madhya Pradesh India | Photo: Flickr}

Usage patterns, conservation measures and management

Another crucial parameter that the water census focused on was water usage patterns in Madhya Pradesh. The census found that the total water consumption in the state was 34,613.60 MCM.

Agriculture accounted for the largest share of water consumption, with a consumption of 27,888.40 MCM. Followed by domestic and industrial usage, which accounted for 4,079.20 MCM and 2,646 MCM, respectively.

The water census also looked at the state's water conservation measures. The census found that the state had implemented several measures to conserve water, including the construction of check dams, farm ponds, and rooftop rainwater harvesting systems. The census also emphasized the need to promote water conservation practices among the general public, such as the judicious use of water, reuse of wastewater, and rainwater harvesting.

The water census in Madhya Pradesh highlights the importance of sustainable water management in the state. The state has abundant water resources, but their management and conservation are critical to ensuring their long-term sustainability. The census emphasized the need for the state to adopt a holistic approach to water management, which includes promoting water conservation practices, improving water use efficiency, and exploring alternative sources of water.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the water census in Madhya Pradesh provides valuable insights into the state's water resources, usage patterns, and conservation measures. The census has highlighted the need for the state to adopt a sustainable approach to water management.

Furthermore, emphasized the importance of promoting water conservation practices among the general public. The data collected through the water census will help policymakers in Madhya Pradesh to make informed decisions about the management and conservation of the state's water resources.

By adopting a comprehensive approach to water management, Madhya Pradesh can ensure the long-term sustainability of its water resources, and secure a better future for its people.