Faridabad, March 21, 2024: Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies (MRIIRS), through its Centre for Advanced Water Technology and Management (CAWTM), in collaboration with Water for People, organized a pivotal event focusing on Glacier Preservation and Sustainable Water Management on the occasion of World Water Day on March 22. The conference brought together globally renowned researchers, industry experts, policymakers, and civil society leaders to address the urgent need of springshed management, glacier protection through climate action and sustainable management of ground water resources.
The event featured a keynote address by globally renowned water researcher, Professor Alan Fryar from the University of Kentucky, USA, who provided deep insights into the management of springs mentioning their connection to glacier health. Dr. A. Ashokan, Member (HQ), Central Ground Water Board, Ministry of Jal Shakti, and Dr. Suresh Babu, Senior Director, World Wild Fund for Nature (WWF)-India, shared their expertise on the Indian groundwater resource utilization and management, policy perspective and interventions, how glaciers play a critical role in groundwater of the Gangetic Plains and water linked environment and community issues.
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Key discussions at the event emphasized the importance of glacier and snowmelt in rejuvenating springs, maintaining flow in the Himalayan-origin rivers and ensuring ground water resource sustainability in the flood plain aquifers. There is evidence that glaciers in Himalaya and other regions, such as Alaska, are shrinking in many places due to the impact of climate change.
Professor Alan Fryar’s keynote delved into the importance of spring water systems, particularly in the Himalayan region. Based on his research he presented that “The Lidder spring system clearly demonstrates a decline in spring discharge during the summer and autumn months. Receding glaciers and diminishing meltwater are key factors contributing to this decreasing yield. Protecting these glaciers is essential to sustaining groundwater resources and ensuring water availability for communities dependent on these springs.”
Addressing the audience, Dr. Saha, Chair Prof, CAWTM and Board President Water for People India, highlighted India’s growing water scarcity concerns. He said, “With only approximately 2.4% of the world’s land but approximately 18% of its population, India is at the forefront of global freshwater scarcity. In the Gangetic Plains flanked by Himalayas in the north, climate change is impacting glaciers and in turn imposing uncertainty in downstream river flows and aquifers. The situation needs urgent action.”
Providing a regulatory perspective, Dr. Ashokan discussed the role of groundwater governance and conservation strategies. He said, “Regulating groundwater extraction in India is crucial but challenging. While industries are subject to stringent regulations, the agriculture sector remains largely unmonitored. Sustainable management of groundwater also requires a balance between economic needs and environmental preservation.”
Adding to the discussions, Mr. Suresh Babu, underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in water conservation. He remarked, “The recede of glacier impacts the river and they shift from perennial to seasonal or even dry. The river is not only the flow of water, it embodies the aquatic animals and the biodiversity, represented in the riverine system. The dolphins and gharials are being protected with community involvement.”
Dr. Sanjay Srivastava, Vice Chancellor, MRIIRS, expressed gratitude to the speakers and participants, reaffirming Manav Rachna’s commitment to sustainable water solutions. He remarked, “Manav Rachna remains dedicated to pioneering research and advocacy for water conservation. Through collaborations with global experts, we aim to drive impactful change in water resource management.”
The event saw participation from prominent academic institutions such as IITs, Jamia Millia Islamia, leading NGOs, industry bodies like FICCI and CII, and policymakers, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing water challenges.
About MREI:
Founded in 1997, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions (MREI) stand as a symbol of excellence in education, providing high-quality learning across diverse fields. With over 41,000 alumni, 120+ global academic collaborations, and 80+ Innovation & Incubation Entrepreneurial Ventures, MREI is home to premier institutions, including Manav Rachna University (MRU), Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies (MRIIRS) – NAAC A++ Accredited, and Manav Rachna Dental College (under MRIIRS) – NABH Accredited. MREI also operates twelve schools nationwide, offering Indian and International curricula such as IB and Cambridge. Consistently ranked among the top in India by NIRF-MHRD, TOI, Outlook, Business World, ARIIA, and Careers360, MREI’s achievements reflect its commitment to quality education. MRIIRS holds QS 5-Star ratings for Teaching, Employability, Academic Development, Facilities, Social Responsibility, and Inclusiveness. MRIIRS has entered the Top 100 Universities list in the NIRF Rankings 2024 with Rank 92 and was placed 38 in Dental Category.
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