Water Awareness and Conservation Workshop Inspires Faithful to Care for Creation

The Commission for Ecology of the Archdiocese of Bangalore, under the leadership of its Secretary, Rev. Fr. Balraj J., and Joint Secretary, Rev. Sr. Precilla Lobo SCB, organized a meaningful Water Awareness and Conservation Workshop at Paalanaa Bhavana, in collaboration with Biome Environmental Trust. The programme brought together participants for a day of reflection and learning, focusing on the urgent need to protect and preserve water as a vital gift of God. It highlighted that water is not merely a resource, but deeply connected to human life, culture, faith, and community well-being.

The session was led by Mr. Ashwin Krishnamurthy, who offered an insightful presentation on the significance of traditional water systems. He explained how cultural wells once played a central role in sustaining livelihoods, fostering social bonding, and promoting sustainable living. His reflections reminded participants of the wisdom embedded in traditional practices that nurtured both ecological balance and community harmony.

At the same time, the workshop addressed the growing dependence on borewells and the serious consequences of groundwater depletion. It emphasized that water sustainability cannot rely solely on rainwater harvesting, but must also include responsible groundwater use and conscious conservation practices. Participants were encouraged to rethink their daily habits and adopt sustainable approaches to water usage.

Key themes discussed included the revival and protection of traditional water sources such as open wells and community tanks, the importance of individual and collective responsibility in conserving water, and the impact of climate change on water resources. The workshop also stressed the need to raise awareness, especially among youth, and to promote sustainable water management practices at every level of society.

An inspiring message from Bishop Joseph Susainathan added a deeply spiritual dimension to the programme. Through meaningful stories, he reminded everyone that protecting water is not only an environmental responsibility but also a moral and spiritual duty. The workshop concluded on a hopeful note, encouraging participants to take concrete steps towards water conservation and reaffirming the Archdiocese of Bangalore’s commitment to caring for creation.