Event Overview: On March 16, 2024, Rajasthan marked a significant milestone by becoming the first Indian state to introduce the State Water Resources Information Systems (SWRIS) dashboard. This innovative platform is designed to enhance drought forecasting and improve water management decisions across the state. The launch was spearheaded by Suresh Singh Rawat, the Minister of Water Resources, at Sinchai Bhawan in Jaipur.
Development and Purpose:
- Initiative Under the National Hydrology Project: The dashboard was developed as part of the National Hydrology Project, which collaborates with the World Bank to enhance the management and availability of water resources information in India.
- Capabilities of the SWRIS Dashboard:
- Real-Time Water Data: Provides up-to-the-minute data on 805 dams, with daily updates on 242 and live data from 88.
- Rainfall Analytics: Users can access historical and analyzed rainfall data from 326 rain gauge stations dating back to 1957.
- Canal Information: Detailed information and GIS mapping of major canal networks, including the Ganga and Bhakra systems.
- Groundwater Records: Features pre and post-monsoon measurements from over 9,022 piezometers, wells, and observation points starting from 2011.
- Comprehensive Monitoring: The Real-Time Data Ambition System (RTDAS) offers hourly updates on various environmental parameters such as rainfall, waterlogging, and temperature.
Significance and Impact: The SWRIS dashboard allows for strategic water resource management, aiding farmers in crop planning and irrigation based on accurate, real-time water availability data. This tool is expected to significantly mitigate the risks associated with droughts and enhance the sustainable management of water resources in Rajasthan.
About the National Hydrology Project:
- Goal: To improve the extension, quality, and accessibility of water resources information and to fortify the capacity of water management institutions in India.
- Support: The project is supported by the Ministry of Jal Shakti and the World Bank, emphasizing its critical role in national water resource strategy.
Rajasthan at a Glance:
- Chief Minister: Bhajan Lal Sharma
- Governor: Kalraj Mishra
- Conservation Efforts: The state is home to notable conservation sites including the Desert National Park and Keoladeo Ghana National Park, along with wildlife sanctuaries like Mount Abu and Sitamata.
This dashboard not only positions Rajasthan as a leader in technological adaptation in water management but also sets a benchmark for other states to follow, promoting better agricultural practices and water use efficiency throughout the region.