JMC launches 'Catch the Rain' campaign at Government High School, Gandhi Nagar

• Over 1,000 rainwater harvesting structures to be installed in schools

JAMMU: In line with the nationwide 'Catch the Rain' campaign under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative, the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) today launched the campaign by performing the groundbreaking ceremony of a rooftop rainwater harvesting structure at Government High School, Gandhi Nagar. Jammu Municipal Corporation Commissioner Dr Devansh Yadav inaugurated the initiative.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Yadav described rainwater harvesting as a sustainable solution for conserving water and recharging groundwater. He explained that rainwater falling on school rooftops, usually lost through drains and nallahs, will now be channelled through specially designed pipelines to recharge the groundwater table.

The Commissioner announced that more than 1,000 rooftop rainwater harvesting structures will be developed in schools under the campaign. Similar structures will also be installed in government buildings and rainwater harvesting will be made mandatory for all new building permissions issued by the JMC.

During the programme, students and teachers were sensitised about water conservation and the role of rainwater harvesting in ensuring a sustainable future. Dr Yadav interacted with the students, encouraged them to become ambassadors of water conservation and distributed sweets among them.

On the occasion, all participants took a pledge to conserve water and support the 'Catch the Rain' campaign, reaffirming their commitment to preserving water resources for future generations. The month-long campaign will include awareness programmes, community outreach activities and the promotion of rainwater harvesting practices across Jammu city.