Over 3 Lakh Join Maha Walkathon Across Maharashtra for Soil and Water Conservation
More than three lakh citizens across 36 districts of Maharashtra participated in the 'Maha Walkathon' initiative on Friday to promote soil and water conservation efforts, state Minister Sanjay Rathod announced during an event at Worli in Mumbai.
The state-wide programme was organised by the Soil and Water Conservation Department on the birth anniversary of late former chief minister Sudhakarrao Naik. The initiative, themed "Save soil, conserve water and build a safe Maharashtra" under the 'Maha Walkathon - Walk for Water' banner, aimed to take conservation awareness directly to the public rather than limiting discussions to administrative meetings at Mantralaya.
As part of the Mumbai leg, a three-kilometre state-level walkathon commenced near Aarey Milk Colony and concluded at Madraswadi along the Coastal Road. Rathod walked the entire route alongside citizens, dignitaries, and senior government officials.
Addressing the gathering, Rathod emphasised that soil and water are directly linked to the future of Maharashtra. He stated that government efforts require active people's participation, particularly from the youth, to strengthen the ongoing water conservation movement. The minister also recalled Naik's historical contribution to institutionalising conservation efforts and transforming 'Pani Adva, Pani Jirva' into a widespread public movement.
Maharashtra Legislative Council Deputy Chairman Sachin Ahir commended the walkathon as an innovative effort to convey the message of resource conservation at the grassroots level. Ahir noted that water is a universal need and stressed that the message must reach citizens across caste and religion, expressing hope that the response across all 36 districts marks the start of a broader movement for future generations.
Minister of State for Soil and Water Conservation Indranil Naik urged citizens to actively engage in conservation to protect fertile land and ensure sustainable water supplies. He pointed out that unchecked rainwater runoff carries away fertile soil while preventing water from percolating into the ground.
The Mumbai event also saw participation from former cricketer Irfan Pathan and actors Pushkar Shrotri, Rajnish Duggal, and Jackie Bhagnani. The gathering featured a formal water conservation pledge, a tree-watering activity, and the performance of a song carrying the message of saving soil and water.
