Thiruvananthapuram: A unique census of springs has shown that there are 4,348 of these natural sources of water in the state. This includes springs in urban and rural areas in all 14 districts.The first-of-its-kind census was conducted by state groundwater department for a scheme of Union ministry of jal shakti. The survey was conducted with technical support from National Institute of Hydrology.The aim of the census is to assess, document the source and availability of natural water for better groundwater management and to prevent overexploitation of groundwater. The census will also create a database that can be used for scientific planning to strengthen natural water sources, especially in hilly areas. The database will help govt in creating water-related policies.During the survey process, volunteers entered data on a mobile app called NIH-ISHWAR and a web application. Training programmes were also held in districts for officials of groundwater department to conduct the census.A comprehensive report on springs in the state will be released by jal shakti ministry in New Delhi on Monday, said an official.The Union ministry is also looking at creating an inventory of springs across the country, especially in hilly regions, including the Western Ghats, as climate change, deforestation and unsustainable development practices are exerting pressure on these springs. The effort assumes importance as neglect has led to reduced flow and drying up of springs, leading to water scarcity. As data has not been available so far, it was difficult to formulate policies in this regard.
