Jharkhand News: Palamu DDC consults NPU on climate and water management

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Daltonganj, June 3: The Palamu district administration has sought expert advice from Nilamber Pitamber University on environmental issues and climate change, focusing particularly on their social impact. The administration is also looking for guidance on managing surface water, a critical issue as Palamu experiences severe water scarcity during summers.

On Tuesday, Deputy Development Commissioner (DDC) M. Shabbir Ahmad met with the Vice-Chancellor of Nilamber Pitamber University, Dr. Prof. Dinesh Kumar Singh, to discuss climate challenges, environmental concerns, and surface water management in the district.

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Discussions on Rainwater Conservation and Drought-Resistant Crops

“Rainwater runoff from roads, whether on the metallic state highways or national highways, is wasted in large quantities. This water needs to be conserved and utilized effectively,” said DDC Shabbir. He suggested that university faculty and students could assist in developing strategies for surface water retention and management.

The Vice-Chancellor agreed to support these efforts and recommended promoting the cultivation of drought-resistant fruits such as Bel, Baer, and Ounla, which require minimal water and maintenance. He also noted ongoing projects focused on both timber and fruit-bearing trees, highlighting jackfruit (Kathal) as a popular local crop.

However, Dr. Singh cautioned that jackfruit trees demand substantial water, and water scarcity can lead to their early decay.

University Infrastructure and Water Supply Improvements Proposed

Public Relations Officer Dr. Vineeta Dixit documented the meeting’s key points. Discussions also addressed the university’s water supply plans, with the DDC coordinating with the Drinking Water and Sanitation Department to dispatch a team for an on-site assessment of water availability.

Dr. Singh requested the installation of solar-powered water fountains (jal minars), paving of campus roads with paver blocks, and an overall aesthetic upgrade to the campus. He presented the expansion blueprint of the university to the DDC.

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Land Demarcation and Development Support Discussed

The DDC advised the Vice-Chancellor to formally request the Deputy Commissioner (DC) for land demarcation of the university and its adjoining college, along with identification and action against encroachments, which have reportedly affected university property significantly.

Sources revealed that the DDC assured full support for the university’s growth and development beyond academics. He also proposed organizing a larger meeting with DC Sameera S to address multiple university-related issues more comprehensively.

Following the meeting, the Vice-Chancellor and DDC inspected the university stadium, which remains undeveloped and unclaimed.