Water shortage forces postponement of anti-encroachment drive

Jaipur, May 8 (UNI) Rajasthan has postponed the anti-encroachment drive Operation Sugam in view of the month-long Jal Chetna Yatra to be commenced from May 16.

Operation Sugam was to start today but urban development minister Pratap Singh Singhvi said since the state has been in the grip of drought for the last 43 years, there is a need to create awareness about water scarcity and the need for saving water.

He said each person is supposed to get 1,000 cubic tonnes of water per day according to laid guidelines. But it has come down to 800 cubic metres per day now.

He added that because of continuous use of ground water, out of 237 blocks, only 32 blocks have just about enough water. The Jal Chetna Yatra is being held to create awareness about the need to save water.

Mr Singhvi said Operation Sugam has been postponed also because of the school admissions, which will start from next month end. He said the dates for Operation Sugam will be announced at a suitable time.

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