First phase of Integrated Water Resources Management in Bago sub-basin area
The concept of Integrated Water Resources Management has been defined by the Global Water Partnership in 2011.
In term, Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is a process which promotes the coordinated development and management of water, land and related resources in order to maximize economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems and the environment.
In common language, IWRM helps mankind to protect environments and preserve natural resources including water, air, land, forest and so on. This is not only just preserving the nature, without improving living standard, but also enlightening economic growth and sustainable agricultural development and human health.
In the Bago area IWRM was introduced in 2016 as part of implementing the river basin management approach. The Bago River Sub-basin Committee and the Bago Sub-basin Non-governmental Stakeholder Group was established for the development of the Bago River Sub-basin Management Plan. On September 20th the plan was announced and presented in an open seminar. The Bago Chief Minister said the welcoming words, and secretaries of the Committee and of the Group presented.
"To preserve the water resources, the responsibility is not falling upon just one department. This approach is better than before as to protect the environment, we cooperate with other departments, local community and Non-Governmental Organization," U Zaw Win from the Bago Forest Department,said.
Currently the management plan not only provides an overview of how the water body groups are affected by human impact but also a table presenting implemented and planned measures. Additionally, the sectors responsible for implementing the measures are listed on the plan. So far, groundwater is not included in the target of this approach.
"Second phase 'Implementation' will be started in 2019 for next 4 years based on first phase outcomes. We are going to do our research in water quality monitoring, garbage and waste management. Moreover, we need to find a way how to educate local community to involve in these activities," he added.
"Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is not an end in itself. It is a process and we continuously need to advance on this road of IWRM" Ingrid Nesheim from Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA) said
U Zaw Win Myint, Bago Forest Department
Ingrid Nesheim, Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA)
The table presents abatement measures for reaching good ecological status of the Bago River Sub-basin identified by sector authorities. (Start from Page. 7)
