Thu Nov 21 16:58:37 UTC 2024: ## Virudhunagar District Creates Hundreds of Rainwater Harvesting Ponds
**VIRUDHUNAGAR, Tamil Nadu, November 21, 2024** – The Virudhunagar district administration is tackling water scarcity in the rain-shadow region by constructing 1,642 new ponds, a project aimed at boosting groundwater levels and providing water for agriculture. Over 400 ponds have already been completed using manual labor under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.
The initiative, dubbed “Catch the Rain,” strategically locates the ponds on government land where rainwater naturally collects or near water channels. The ponds, ranging from 40 meters x 40 meters to 80 meters x 80 meters and 1.5 to 2 meters deep, are manually dug to avoid damaging rocky terrains. The excavated soil is used to build bunds, increasing the water storage capacity.
District Collector V.P. Jeyaseelan explained that the project prioritizes suitable locations, avoiding areas near human settlements or industries. Project Director R. Dandapani of the District Rural Development Agency noted that the 2-meter depth limit is due to the manual nature of the excavation.
Recent rains have already filled many of the newly created ponds, showcasing the project’s immediate benefits. The administration has secured administrative sanction for approximately 1,200 more ponds, and Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s recent announcement of ₹150 crore in funding for waterbody improvement further bolsters the initiative. Additionally, around 150 old ponds are undergoing renovation and desilting with the help of an NGO. The project is providing employment and a sustainable water solution for the district.
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