Dried-up pond rejuvenated, becomes hub of activities

An almost dried-up pond in Sarog village, about 30 km from Shimla, has been rejuvenated by the joint effort of the administration and the local residents. Former president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam had also visited this village and was impressed by the then vibrant pond.

Over the last few years, the pond had been fighting for its existence due to siltation and neglect. The turning point came when the local residents brought the pond’s condition to the administration’s attention. The administration responded by launching a cleanliness drive and allocating Rs 60 lakh for renovation in phases. Rs 5 lakh was spent under MG-NREGA, Rs 15 lakh was provided SJVN under CSR, and Rs 10 lakh was allocated by the Public Works Department for constructing a wall around the pond.

The renovation of the pond had a profound impact on the surrounding villages. Natural sources that had dried up for years in surrounding villages began to revive. New natural springs emerged, and the groundwater level increased. The pond now holds 80 lakh litres of water, which can be used for relief work during fires and other purposes.

The pond’s beautification has also made it a hub for community activities. An open-air gym has been set up on its banks, and eight solar lights have been installed to illuminate the area. The villagers are proud of their renovated pond, which has not only solved their water scarcity issues but also become a symbol of community-led conservation efforts.

“This pond is very old. At one time, the villagers used the water of this pond for drinking, but a few years ago the pond dried up due to siltation. With the help of the local people, the administration has renovated this pond,” said BDO Jagdeep Singh. “There is also a proposal to build a library near the pond. A proposal regarding this will soon be sent to the district administration,” he said.