Indian Railways to create artificial ponds along tracks

Indian Railways is starting a new project to build artificial ponds, known as 'Amrit Sarovar', on empty land near railway tracks. This effort aims to help with the country's water crisis. It is a joint project with the Ministry of Rural Development. Amit Malviya, a senior official from the North Central Railway, said the project will improve water availability and support ecological balance. It will also help generate resources for railway construction. A survey has begun to find the best locations for these ponds in the NCR zone, with plans to complete the work by August 15. The Mission Amrit Sarovar was launched in April 2022. Its goal is to create or improve 50,000 ponds across India. By October 2024, over 68,000 ponds had already been completed, which has significantly increased water levels in the area. Instructions have been sent by top officials at the Railway Board and the Department of Rural Development to identify sites for building new ponds or reviving old ones near railway lines. Local authorities will help find these sites, which could also be used for railway construction if suitable. The project will involve cleaning and restoring existing water bodies to enhance their usefulness. The National Water Mission has provided guidelines for this rejuvenation process. The railway construction will benefit from the soil and silt from the ponds. Every worksite will have a standard signboard provided by the Ministry of Rural Development. Some areas designated for railway projects may also be transformed into Amrit Sarovar. The Railway Board will collaborate with local administrations to manage the transport of soil to railway sites. Building ponds in forested areas requires permission from the relevant forest department. If that is not possible, a No Objection Certificate will be needed for the project to move forward.