World Water Day observed in Longleng; community urged to conserve water

Longleng, March 22 (MExN): Lemsachenlok marked World Water Day at Alayung under Longleng district with participation from three villages, bringing together village council members, women representatives, and community stakeholders to raise awareness on the importance of water conservation.

The programme emphasised that while NGOs can initiate change, sustainable impact depends on active community participation and collective responsibility.

The event began with an invocation by the Village Council Chairman, Alayung, followed by a welcome address by team member C Mongnyei Phom. The session was chaired by Paunen.

During the technical session, team member Kisemsala spoke on the significance of World Water Day, first observed in 1993, and highlighted challenges such as drying rivers, depleted wells, and irregular rainfall patterns.

Speaking on this year’s theme, “Water and Gender,” she underscored the vital role of women in water collection, management and conservation, particularly in rural areas, and called for their greater inclusion in decision-making processes.

Another team member, Langnyei Angh, highlighted the increasing strain on water resources due to population growth and developmental activities such as construction. He pointed to concerns including drying ancestral ponds and wells, shifting monsoon patterns, and the impacts of climate change on agriculture.

He also noted the growing threats of pests and diseases, stressing the interconnected nature of these challenges and the need for collective action.

Among the measures suggested were protection of watersheds, restricting deforestation near water sources, planting native trees and bamboo in catchment areas to improve groundwater recharge, constructing check dams and percolation pits, and encouraging village councils to take proactive leadership in water conservation.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Toshila, followed by a benediction. Participants were sensitised on the need to conserve and protect water resources for future generations.

Additionally, Lemsachenlok team members reached out to several villages across Longleng district, observing the day through church platforms and further spreading awareness on water conservation and community responsibility.