Chhatarpur: Women of Devran village in Chhatarpur Build Dam to Tackle Water Crisis

Inspired by 'The Mountain Man' Dashrath Manjhi, women in Devran village built a dam on Kathan river using sand sacks in just 11 days to tackle crises.

Chhatarpur (Madhya Pradesh): In a remarkable feat of community action, the women of Devran village in Chhatarpur district of Bundelkhand have built a dam on the Kathan river to prevent a severe water crisis. Taking inspiration from the legendary Dashrath Manjhi, also known as 'The Mountain Man', who had carved a path through a mountain in memory of his wife, Rani Ahirwar and 24 other women initiated the project to stop the river flow and build a dam using sand sacks. The women worked tirelessly for 11 days, and their efforts have now paid off, as the cattle have started getting water from the river.

The villagers of Devran have been facing a major water scarcity issue for years, with only two water sources in the village from which drinking water is available, and no water in the open wells throughout the year. The Kathan river, originating from the edge of the village, is the only source for washing clothes, bathing, and other works. In the summer months of May and June, the well of the village dries up, exacerbating the water shortage issue.

In January 2022, the Parmarth Samaj Sevi Sansthan launched an awareness campaign in Devran village to address the drinking water and sanitation problems. The campaign seems to have inspired the women of the village, who started building the dam on April 11, 2023. The movement quickly gained momentum, with villagers donating sacks and labor to the project.

Speaking about the project, Rani Ahirwar said that the edge of the water used to break in the summer, causing immense problems for the villagers who had to walk miles to get water, sometimes taking an entire day to fill the water. She added that since the dam is built, the villagers would not have to wander for water, and it would be a huge relief for them.

This story is a testimony to the power of community action and how small initiatives can have a big impact on society. The women of Devran village have set an example for others to follow, and their contribution to resolving the water crisis in their village will not be forgotten.