Nellore:In a remarkable example of community-driven transformation, three villages in Andhra Pradesh’s Prakasam district—Murugummi, Marella, and Thangella—have emerged as models of water resilience.
They have overcome years of drought and groundwater depletion through collective action.
Implemented under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari campaign of the Jal Shakti ministry, the initiative has improved groundwater availability, strengthened rural livelihoods and reduced distress migration in these villages.
Not long ago, the region faced acute water scarcity due to erratic rainfall, falling groundwater levels, and repeated borewell failures, severely affecting agriculture. The turnaround began with intensive community mobilisation—Gram Sabhas, door-to-door campaigns, Kalajathas, workshops, and field demonstrations — that brought farmers, women, and youth together to refashion water use.
Villagers adopted practices such as water budgeting, scientific crop planning and groundwater sharing, fostering a strong sense of ownership.
A ridge-to-valley approach guided the implementation of multiple water conservation measures, including percolation tanks, farm ponds, staggered trenches, rooftop rainwater harvesting systems, and rejuvenation of traditional water bodies.
The impact has been substantial. In Murugummi, 71 conservation structures created a storage capacity of over 8.11 lakh cubic metres, supporting irrigation across 264.5 hectares. Marella developed 53 structures with a capacity of 10.04 lakh cubic metres, in addition to nearly 5.95 lakh cubic metres through restored ponds.
Thangella constructed 71 structures with a capacity of 5.89 lakh cubic metres, while revived water bodies added another 3.98 lakh cubic metres.
These interventions have benefited around 5,900 people by improving water access for both domestic and agricultural needs. Enhanced irrigation has boosted farm productivity, while increased water availability has supported dairy activities, leading to higher milk production and additional income for rural households.
Improved soil moisture has also contributed to more stable cropping patterns. Importantly, better livelihood opportunities have reduced migration, allowing families to remain in their villages.
The achievements have gained national recognition, with Murugummi securing the second-best Village Panchayat award at the national water awards 2024, while Marella and Thangella have also received national-level acknowledgment.