Latest news highlighted by our electronic media is that 25 lakh litres of water has reached by train to Latur city, which is facing the worst drought in the state of Maharashtra. More such trips are also expected to reach Latur station. But, no one has paid attention to the commendable work being done at the location of Manjra river , which is just 18 to 20 kms away from Latur station. This work is being carried out for water conservation, with public participation, with the help of voluntary organisations. Thanks to the timely help coming from organisations like Art of Living, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh – Janakalyan Samiti, Latur Unit of Indian Medical Association , Latur Traders Mahasangh and others.
It may be noted that the Manjra river has turned dry, for the past several years. So, a novel project has been undertaken from the auspicious Gudhi Padwa day, to revive the flow of water into the river and recharge the ground water in the surrounding area. Under the project( which is also called Shivpur pattern) the 18 km long river bed will be widened to 80 meters and also deepen by 10 feet, below the existing depth. The project cost is estimated to be 7.5 Crores, while the work is being carried out with Public participation, a separate charitable trust Sarvajanik Jalyukt Latur Vyavasthapan Samitee , has been formed with registration no. 56/2016, to bring transparency into the transactions .
Founder of Latur Vivekanand Hospital and ex- Area Sanghachalak Dr. Ashokrao Kukade is the Chairman and Shri Makarand Jadhav of ‘ Art of Living Foundation’ is the secretary of the Trust. Shri. B.B.Thombre, Adv.Manohar Gomare, Adv. Tryambakdas Zanvar and Prin. Jogendra Singh Bisen are the members of the trust. Besides, hundreds of activists from various institutions are voluntarily are making their contributions.
It has been decided to complete the entire work in 10 kms area within next 40 to 50 days, i.e. before the start of the monsoon.
Those interested ,may also participate in this noble cause by making monitory contributions . The details of the bank a/c are :
A/c Name :Sarvajanik Jalyukt Latur Vyavasthapan Samiti.
Bank Name: HDFC Bank ltd Br. Latur
A/c.No.50200016921005
IFSC Code: hdfc0000360
However, before or after depositing your contributions, you may inform Sangha Volunteer Mr. Arun Danke on his Mobile Phone number 09423076004 .
You are also welcome to provide any machinery required for the purpose, for which you may contact Sangha Volunteer Shivdas Mitakari on his Mobile Phone number 09404273444.
According local resident Satish Karmarkar , Electronic media is not giving due coverage to this project, just because an organisation like RSS is involved in it. One famous Television news editor had visited the project. But, after knowing about RSS involvement, he too lost interest, which reflected in his reporting.
People of Latur have now awaken and are fighting against this natural calamity. Various social organisations are collectively trying to find a solution for water shortage in Latur, without even waiting for help from Government. Industrialists are also contributing in a big way. Looking at their sincere efforts, others are also expected to join hands with them.