REPORTS / MEMIOGRAPH

Status of Traditional Drinking Water Sources in Outer Himalaya: A Case Study of Hamirpur and Bilaspur Districts, M.R. Sharma, Housing Board Colony, Hamirpur

Himalayas, the abode of snow, is a perennial source of water and is responsible for the greenery that is seen in the valleys and spurs. To assess the current status of traditional drinking water sources in the state, a study was conducted in Hamirpur and Bilaspur districts. All the traditional sources in these districts were enumerated.  22 Panchayats in Hamirpur and 12 Panchayats in Bilaspur districts were randomly selected for sanitary survey. Sanitary survey was conducted with the help of a well-structured schedule.  30 samples for each type of source i.e. wells, baories and khatries were collected and analyzed to get first hand information about the water quality of the sources. Findings of the study reveals that the main traditional sources for the drinking water in Hamirpur area are wells, baories and khatries, and in Bilaspur area these are baories, wells, springs and unlined wells. 18% wells in Hamirpur and 28% in Bilaspur area are not being used to draw water for drinking purposes. Similarly 23% baories in Hamirpur and 5.2% in Bilaspur area are not in use i.e. their water is not used for drinking purposes. The water in 60% wells, 55% baories and 36% khatries is contaminated and not fit for human consumption. The study further recommends that the revival of traditional sources is necessary because these are local spot sources near the habitations, water does not have to be pumped from far off distance, no energy is required to lift water, minimum maintenance is needed and the sources can be easily cleaned and disinfected. People have a sense of belongingness to the sources.  A revival of traditional drinking water sources is essential.

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