Maharashtra is on the brink of a transformative initiative aimed at revolutionizing water management in the state. On May 25, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced that Maharashtra would become the first state in India to implement the innovative ‘Water 7/12’ system. This comprehensive water recording system, modeled after the successful land records system known as Saatbara, is designed to curb excessive water usage and promote sustainable management of this vital resource.
During a high-level meeting with key officials from various departments, including Revenue, Water Supply and Sanitation, and Rural Development, Minister Bawankule outlined the objectives of the new initiative. He explained that the introduction of systematic water audits and a 'Water Balance Sheet' will provide a structured approach to water resource management, which has been lacking until now. By accurately recording water consumption, the state aims to enhance public accountability and facilitate informed decision-making regarding water usage.
- Introduction of 'Water Audit' — This innovative concept will enable the state to conduct thorough assessments of water usage, fostering responsible consumption practices.
- Implementation of 'Aqua Credits' — The system will reward individuals and communities for their active participation in water conservation efforts, promoting a culture of sustainability.
- Three-stage auditing process — The water accounting framework will classify resources annually, allowing for transparent tracking of water stocks and flows at the Gram Panchayat and watershed levels.
Minister Bawankule highlighted that this initiative aligns with the principles of ‘Blue Green Urban Development’, representing a significant leap forward in water governance. In collaboration with experts from IIT Bombay, including Dr. Subramanya Kansur and Dr. Avinash Kadam, the state has devised a modern ‘Water Accounting Framework’ that will facilitate efficient monitoring of water resources. This framework will enable the classification of water stocks, inflows, outflows, and balances, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of water availability in the state.
The introduction of ‘Aqua Credits’ is particularly noteworthy, as it incentivizes communities to adopt sustainable practices while laying the groundwork for a robust ‘Water Economy’ in the future. As Maharashtra embarks on this pioneering experiment, it sets a precedent for other states in India to follow suit in sustainable water resource management. This initiative not only addresses the pressing issue of water scarcity but also fosters a collective responsibility towards conservation, thereby ensuring a sustainable future for the state's water resources.
