Mayurbhanj: As climate change continues to pose significant challenges worldwide, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. In Odisha, erratic rainfall patterns and growing population pressures have led to increased reliance on groundwater. In response, the Odisha Mineral Bearing Areas Development Corporation (OMBADC) is actively supporting the Forest, Environment, and Climate Change Department of the Government of Odisha in implementing various projects aimed at rain and groundwater conservation in the mineral-rich Mayurbhanj district.
Known for its lush forests and hills, Mayurbhanj is the largest district in Odisha by area. The strategically constructed check dams in the region play a crucial role in conserving rainwater runoff from the hills, benefiting both local wildlife and villagers who depend on this stored water for agriculture.
“Previously, rainwater from nearby hills flooded our village, causing hardship. Thanks to the construction of a dam supported by OMBADC, we now conserve that water and use it to grow crops, which provides us with a livelihood option,” shared Jharana Mahanta, a resident of Kantasala, Badampahar.
To address groundwater recharge and soil erosion control, OMBADC has financed the construction of various water harvesting structures in Mayurbhanj. These include loose boulder check dams, wire mesh loose boulder check dams, graded bunds, sub-surface dykes, percolation pits, staggered trenches, earthen bunds, and stone bunding.
“The forests are rich in precious medicinal plants. However, water scarcity hindered tree growth, severely impacting the livelihoods of those dependent on the forests. With the construction of dams and other projects, the trees are now thriving, allowing people to collect forest produce and earn a decent income,” added Upendranath Mahanta, another local resident.
Community-led initiatives are also gaining momentum in Mayurbhanj, focusing on establishing nurseries and conducting afforestation programs aimed at environmental protection and green belt development in mining areas. Under the Forest Division of Rairangpur, Karanjia, and Baripada, approximately 83.33 lakh saplings have been planted to date. Supported by OMBADC under the Directorate of Soil Conservation and Watershed Development of the Government of Odisha, various projects, including farm ponds and water harvesting structures, are being implemented to combat declining groundwater levels, aid soil conservation, and provide sustainable livelihoods for local communities.
Satyabrata Pattanaik, Forest Ranger of the Badampahar Forest Division, emphasized the positive impact of these initiatives, stating, “Previously, rainfall triggered soil erosion in Mayurbhanj’s forests, leading to deforestation. However, with OMBADC’s intervention, various projects have been implemented to combat soil erosion and conserve rainwater while safeguarding the forest. This ultimately supports sustainable livelihoods for local villagers.”