To address the rising water stress and changing climatic patterns in the region, the Durgawati Reservoir project was conceived. Under this project, a reservoir was built on the Durgawati river which forms the boundary of the Rohtas and Kaimur Districts of Bihar. The reservoir and subsequent submergence zone became functional in 2014-15.
In order to check soil erosion and promote water conservation in the region, a Catchment Area Treatment (CAT) Plan was also devised. The CAT Plan will cover 51,657 hectares which is 97% of prime forest land, thereby benefitting both local villages and wildlife population.
As a result of the CAT Plan, the region has seen improvements to:
- Soil conservation
- Soil moisture regime
- Availability of water
This case study was developed as part of the India States Climate Leadership Project of the Under2 Coalition.