Sri Vijaya Puram, May 01: A water conservation awareness programme led by Gram Panchayat Shivapuram brought together students, local officials and community members in Betapur, highlighting the urgency of sustainable water management at the grassroots level.
The Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) initiative was conducted at Government Middle School, Padmanabhapuram, with the objective of sensitising youth and residents on the need to protect and manage water resources effectively. The programme focused on encouraging behavioural change and community participation in addressing water-related challenges.
Local representatives and officials attended the event, including Panchayat Pradhan Venkateswar Rao, Junior Engineer Vijayalaxmi from APWD Betapur, and Headmaster Nani Gopal Das. The gathering saw active participation from students, faculty members and members of the local community.
During the programme, speakers outlined the importance of conserving water resources and reducing wastage, particularly in areas facing increasing pressure on supply. Venkateswar Rao addressed participants, stressing the role of citizens in safeguarding water and adopting responsible usage practices at the household and community levels.
The session included an interactive segment where students raised questions related to local water concerns, enabling discussion on practical solutions and challenges faced in the area. Officials used the platform to engage directly with participants, addressing queries and reinforcing the importance of collective action.
The initiative also featured awareness-driven activities centred on water conservation. Competitions were organised around the theme, followed by a prize distribution ceremony recognising student participation. Organisers encouraged students to extend the message beyond the classroom and promote water-saving practices within their communities.
The programme formed part of broader efforts to strengthen awareness on water security and sustainability through local-level engagement. By targeting young participants and community stakeholders, authorities aim to build long-term awareness and encourage responsible water use practices.
Officials indicated that such initiatives are intended to foster a culture of conservation and ensure that water management remains a shared responsibility. The event concluded with a renewed emphasis on continued public involvement in safeguarding water resources.
