Jhep was approached by the Sarpanch and the Gram Panchayat of two tribal villages in Junnar Taluka, which have a similar topography as the ridgeline villages in Velhe and share similar water issues. Based on the active participation of the villages and the Gram Panchayat, Jhep has prioritized its work in these tribal villages at this time.
Jhep, GGP and ACWADAM will work hand in hand with the Gram Panchayat and other applicable local governmental committees to identify existing water issues, existing water infrastructure, short term and long term water resource solutions in the villages of Phangul Gavhan and Ghatghar. Multiple visits have been conducted and field data gathering continues at this time.
Upon gathering of the field data, the work will be undertaken in phases as described below:
Immediate solutions to address drinking water issues
- Deepen, widen and reconstruct the well
- Install a water pump (solar if feasible)
- Fix the existing pipeline from the well to the overhead water storage tank.
- Repair the overhead water storage tank and two other water distribution tanks.
- Test and commission the water lines to ensure proper functioning.
Long term solutions to address drinking water issues
- Work with the Forest Department to identify a sustainable source of fresh spring water
- Determine costs related to a new water pump, new pipeline and related elements to bring the spring water into the villages.
- Submit proposals to the respective Government agencies.
- Coordinate, follow up on and monitor the government approvals, project survey, design and construction along with the village residents/beneficiaries.
Water for irrigation purposes
- Identify a location within the Manik Doh backwater area for a sustainable source of water for irrigation purposes.
- Determine costs related to the new lift irrigation system.
- Submit proposals to the respective Government agencies.
- Coordinate, follow up on and monitor the government approvals, project survey, design and construction along with the village residents/beneficiaries.
Other village development aspects
- Training of farmers on improving soil fertility
- Training of farmers on chemical free farming
- Training of farmers on determining sustainable crop patterns
- Training of farmers on preserving and increasing bio-diversity in the area
- Training of villagers on processing of local produce
- Formation of and training of Bachat Gats in generating local employment for youth and women
