Catch The Rain 2026...Telangana Steps Up Water Conservation Drive

The impact of El Niño has intensified in Telangana, with delayed rains causing groundwater levels to decline sharply. Borewells are drying up across Hyderabad and other urban areas, raising concerns over future drinking water availability. To improve groundwater resources and strengthen water security, the Central Government has launched the nationwide ‘Catch The Rain-2026’ campaign.

The campaign is being jointly implemented by the Union Ministries of Housing and Urban Affairs and Jal Shakti. Under this initiative, all Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) in Telangana will focus on rooftop rainwater harvesting systems in government buildings, construction of recharge pits, recharge wells and restoration of unused borewells. Efforts will also be made to revive lakes, ponds and traditional water bodies, along with desilting urban drains to improve rainwater absorption.

As part of public participation, awareness programmes like ‘Jal Samvad’ will be conducted with the involvement of resident welfare associations, educational institutions and voluntary organisations. Cities with a population of over 10 lakh will develop sponge parks to absorb rainwater, while plantation drives will be encouraged in recharge zones. Municipal officials will monitor the progress and upload work details through government platforms to ensure effective implementation.