Madhya Pradesh’s Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme, launched by the PWD, transforms road construction sites into water reservoirs to combat water scarcity. Aiming to build 500 sarovars, the initiative promotes sustainable water conservation and ecological enrichment with tree plantations. Early successes in Satna and Maihar districts highlight its potential to foster rural development and environmental stewardship across the state.
Madhya Pradesh Pioneers Water Conservation with Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme
In a groundbreaking effort to address water scarcity and promote environmental sustainability, the Public Works Department (PWD) of Madhya Pradesh has launched the Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme. This innovative initiative repurposes road construction sites into vital water reservoirs, blending infrastructure development with ecological preservation. Announced on June 30, 2025, the scheme aligns with the state’s broader vision of sustainable rural development and water security.
Under the Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme, the PWD aims to construct 500 sarovars across Madhya Pradesh, creating a network of water bodies to capture and store rainwater. These reservoirs are designed to recharge groundwater, support agricultural needs, and mitigate the impact of droughts in water-stressed regions. The initiative has already shown promising results, with 15 sarovars completed in the Satna and Maihar districts of the Satna division, setting a model for other regions to follow.
Beyond water conservation, the scheme emphasizes ecological enrichment. The PWD is undertaking extensive tree plantation drives around these newly formed water bodies, with tree guards installed to ensure their protection and longevity. This dual approach not only enhances water availability but also contributes to afforestation, improving local ecosystems and combating climate change. The integration of green initiatives reflects Madhya Pradesh’s commitment to holistic environmental stewardship.
The Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme complements other state-led water conservation efforts, such as the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan, which concluded on June 30, 2025, in Khandwa district. That campaign, inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Catch the Rain” initiative, saw the construction of over 1.29 lakh water structures, including farm ponds, Amrit Sarovars, and recharge wells, making Khandwa the top district in India for groundwater conservation. The Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme builds on this momentum, focusing on innovative land use to maximize water retention.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has been a vocal advocate for these initiatives, emphasizing the critical role of water in sustaining life and livelihoods. During the closing ceremony of the Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan, he highlighted the state’s goal to nearly double its irrigated area through projects like the Ken-Betwa Link and Tapi Mega Recharge Project. The Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme is a key component of this vision, leveraging infrastructure projects to create lasting environmental benefits.
The scheme has garnered praise for its forward-thinking approach. By converting construction sites into functional water reservoirs, it addresses the dual challenges of water scarcity and land degradation. Local communities, particularly farmers, stand to benefit from improved access to water for irrigation, enabling multiple crop cycles and boosting agricultural productivity. The initiative also fosters community participation, with local stakeholders involved in maintaining the sarovars and surrounding plantations.
As Madhya Pradesh continues to grapple with water stress in several regions, the Lok Kalyan Sarovar Scheme offers a scalable model for sustainable development. With 500 sarovars planned, the state is poised to make significant strides in water conservation, setting an example for other regions in India facing similar challenges. The combination of innovative engineering, ecological mindfulness, and community engagement positions the scheme as a cornerstone of Madhya Pradesh’s environmental strategy.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports and information available from credible sources, including government announcements and media coverage. The data reflects real-time developments as of July 4, 2025. Readers are advised to verify details with official sources for the latest updates.