In a significant stride towards ensuring access to safe and quality water across Jammu and Kashmir, Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), JK, in collaboration with the Piramal Foundation, organized a two-day multi-department workshop on ‘Water Quality’ at the IMPARD Campus, Srinagar.
More than 70 participants attended this multi-department residential two-day workshop. The participants included engineers and chemists of Jal Jeevan Mission Directorate from various districts of Jammu and Kashmir, Block Development Officers from Rural Development Department, and officers from Agriculture and Horticulture Departments.
The event featured a mix of technical sessions, group discussions, and field activities, offering a comprehensive understanding of water treatment processes and innovative solutions.Mission Director, Jal Jeevan Mission (JK), Dr. G N Itoo addressing the gathering, underscored the importance of proactive problem-solving when it comes to water quality.
In his remarks, Dr. Itoo emphasized, "As we face the growing challenges of climate change and societal shifts, our resolve to find practical solutions remains unwavering. At Jal Jeevan Mission, we are committed to ensuring that every individual, regardless of circumstance, has access to safe and quality water, a resource that is essential for life and dignity."
He urged JJM engineers to perform their duties with zeal and dedication, highlighting the crucial role they play in safeguarding public health and supporting community well-being.The workshop aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to address the critical issue of water quality with special focus on ammoniacal nitrogen contamination.
The workshop featured in-depth discussions on the source and health impacts of water contaminants, as well as treatment and mitigation strategies for dealing with contaminants, with a particular focus on Ammoniacal Nitrate (AN) contamination.
Bhavna Trivedi, a subject-matter expert, highlighted the ongoing nature of the task ahead, stating, "Every day marks a new beginning, and with it, the ongoing challenge of improving water quality – a task that requires unwavering commitment and collective action to ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all."
In addition to the technical discussions, a field visit was organized to a local Water Treatment Plant, where participants gained hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of water treatment techniques and dose calculations. This practical exposure helped bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.
On the second day that focused on the treatment and mitigation technologies of ammoniacal nitrogen, national and international technology providers presented their innovative solutions. Yu-Jen Huang, Director – Ever Clear, a company based out of Taiwan presented BioNET Technology and Dr Akanksha Agarwal, Founding Director – AgroMorph, presented a chemical-free and low cost nature based solution.
The day ended with group work where the participants worked out solutions for water quality related problems generally encountered in the region Bhawna Badola, Program Director at the Piramal Foundation, summarized the workshop emphasizing the necessity of collaboration in solving India’s water challenges.