Ridge-to-Valley Initiative Brings Water, Work and Hope in South Gujarat

Jun 23, 2026

reservoirs through the Forest Department’s Ridge-to-Valley model as part of the “Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain” campaign. In areas like Umarpada in Surat district, rainwater is now being conserved through check dams, forest ponds and trenches. Over the last five years, 170 check dams and 215 forest ponds have helped recharge around 580 crore litres of groundwater, making the initiative a successful example of sustainable water conservation and rural development. The increased water availability has improved irrigation and reduced soil erosion and strengthened rainwater harvesting.