‘Waterman of India’ demands ‘Jal university’ in Uttar Pradesh

LUCKNOW: Rajendra Singh, also known as ‘Waterman of India’, has demanded the UP government to set up a Jal (water) University where scientists can do research and find indigenous ways to save and conserve water.

The Magsaysay awardee feels importing technology on water conservation will not work in Uttar Pradesh.

“The nature has been kind to Uttar Pradesh as you can see big rivers in the state. The government has also decided to revive small rivers and ponds in state but the need is to develop indigenous methods to save rainwater,” said Singh at a press conference on Friday. He said Uttar Pradesh should have a Jal University.

Singh, who has the credit of reviving seven dried up rivers in the country, said a nationwide campaign was being conducted via 101 different yatras by the ‘Water People Alliance’ that will culminate in Bijapur in Karnataka on August 15. One such yatra will also be taken out from Lucknow to Bijapur on August 1, he added.

“There is no single rule in Uttar Pradesh that can ensure water conservation and even the rooftop rainwater harvesting order is not taken seriously. The situation is such that we need scientists to work in Uttar Pradesh and find correct ways to keep water safe instead of going behind other countries,” said Singh.

“What I believe is if the common man is connected with rivers by making them understand the importance of water in their lives, the rivers and ponds will never die. Contractors will make estimates and construct ponds but the common man will save the pond,” he said.

He said he will meet senior officials and request them to plan something concrete to save water in Uttar Pradesh.