A Pani Panchayat, organized by Civil Society of Agra and St. Xavier’s International School, brought together school children to discuss water conservation and management in the city.
Renowned water conservationist Rajendra Singh, also known as Jalpurush, praised the students’ efforts, saying their views would be conveyed to the government and public representatives.
The students emphasized the need to identify and revive Agra’s water sources, clean the Yamuna River, and implement effective water storage plans. They suggested redeveloping water structures, reviving old ponds, and implementing the Shastripuram reservoir scheme.
Participants criticized the Uttar Pradesh government’s groundwater exploitation policy, stating it has worsened the city’s water crisis.
The Panchayat resolved to make Agra water-rich by cleaning and preserving its water sources, and urged the government to address the issue of Rajasthan stopping UP’s share of water from the Utangan and Khari rivers.
Students from seven schools participated in the event, including Holy Public School, Delhi Public School International, and Bharatiya Vidya Mandir School.
The event highlighted the importance of community involvement in water conservation efforts. “We are proud to see our students taking initiative and showing concern for Agra’s water crisis,” said Father Raj Albert, Principal of St. Xavier’s International School.
Rajendra Singh emphasized the need for sustainable water management practices, citing successful examples from neighboring districts Bharatpur and Dholpur. “Agra can learn from these models and implement similar solutions to address its water woes,” he said.
The Panchayat’s resolutions and recommendations will be submitted to the Agra District Administration and the Uttar Pradesh government, with the hope of sparking meaningful change in the city’s water conservation efforts.
Organizers hailed the event as a success, noting that it marked a crucial step towards raising awareness and promoting community engagement on water conservation issues in Agra.
