Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)

Udupi, Feb 23: In order to promote conservation of water, two new rainwater harvesting unit was inaugurated at Mother of Sorrows Church, Udupi on Sunday, February 21. Fr Charles Menezes, convenor of St Mary's Institutions, blessed the newly set up units.

In his address, Fr Charles said, "We have built a rainwater harvesting unit as the groundwater level is reducing day by day. Rainwater is essential to prevent the district from facing a drought." He also called for setting up a rainwater rechargeable unit at every house.

Boniface D’souza, vice president, church Parish Pastoral Council, Mother of Sorrows Church inaugurated the groundwater recharge unit in the open well. Meanwhile, Benedict Fernandes inaugurated the water harvesting pit.

Kannada Rajyotsava award winner, state resource person and trainer Joseph G Rebello constructed the unit.

Joseph addressing the occasion said, "There is no doubt that groundwater level will increase by this method. We are responsible for water, which we are using, not the government. Others should build a rainwater harvesting plant at their house to conserve water. Let us work towards the preservation of water resources."

He was felicitated by the church for his incredible service in the conservation of rainwater.

Open well and rainwater recharging plant was constructed to cover up the rainwater around 14,000 sq mtr of the church roof. The rainwater will be directed into the ground through these two units. 

Fr William Martis, senior parish priest, Fr Johnson Sequiera, principal of St Mary's English Medium School, Apollina Pinto, convenor of 18 commissions, Joy Fernandes, contractor, Santhekatte were present.

Fr Ashwin Aranha compered the programme. All members of the church parish pastoral board and church family members were present.