Jeeran Pond Water Level Drops to 3 Feet

Jeeran pond in Neemuch, Madhya Pradesh, has only three feet of water left, with about seven feet of capacity lying empty. This has triggered concerns over drinking water availability for more than 15,000 residents.

The water resources department recently held a meeting to discuss opening the canal for irrigation, which has sparked controversy. Around 350 farmers are registered for irrigation benefits from the pond, but only eight to 10 attended the meeting. Despite the low attendance, a proposal to open the canal was passed.

Jeeran CMO Kapil Singh Rajawat has objected to the proposal, citing scanty rainfall and low water availability. The council maintains that drinking water should receive priority before irrigation water is released. Residents have also alleged that the interests of influential and large farmers are being prioritised.

Citizens have demanded the District Collector's intervention, a technical assessment of available water, and a plan to secure drinking water through summer. They also want the canal proposal kept on hold until adequate drinking water is ensured and the meeting proceedings reviewed.

The monsoon deficit has become a major concern for locals, with Dhar district receiving 49.45% less rainfall this year compared to last year. Farmers and residents have demanded that the district be declared drought-hit to ensure timely relief measures in affected areas.