Shillong, July 15: The University of Science & Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has released a comprehensive Action Taken Report detailing the measures it has implemented to develop and maintain its campus as a Green Campus, with a strong emphasis on soil conservation, water management, and environmental sustainability.

According to the report, the University has adopted an integrated approach to rainwater management, ensuring that infrastructure development is aligned with ecological protection. Given the region’s high annual rainfall, USTM has developed a campus-wide drainage network that channels rainwater into natural ponds instead of allowing it to flow out unchecked. The University said the system helps reduce soil erosion while conserving water resources.

The report states that the campus has four interconnected natural ponds linked through a network of drainage channels. Rainwater collected from various parts of the campus is directed into these ponds for storage and reuse. According to USTM, nearly 70 percent of the surface runoff is retained and utilized within the campus, while the remaining 30 percent is discharged through a scientifically designed drainage system.

To promote groundwater recharge, the University has installed permeable pavements and rainwater storage tanks that allow water to seep naturally into the ground. Rainwater harvesting systems have also been set up in hostels, academic buildings, and administrative blocks to collect and reuse rainwater for various campus needs.

The report further highlights the development of an extensive drainage infrastructure comprising roadside drains, field drains, park drains, building drains, and hillside drains, all integrated into a unified drainage network. USTM said the system facilitates efficient stormwater flow, minimizes waterlogging, and significantly reduces soil erosion.

As part of its soil conservation efforts, the University has undertaken large-scale plantation of grasses and ornamental plants, developed terraced slopes, constructed retaining walls, and carried out extensive greening of hilly areas. These measures, according to the report, help stabilize the soil and slow the flow of rainwater across the campus.

USTM has also established a wastewater treatment system under which wastewater generated from laboratories, hostels, and other campus facilities is treated before being discharged or reused. The initiative is aimed at reducing environmental pollution while promoting sustainable water reuse.

In addition, the report highlights continuous afforestation drives, the maintenance of parks and green zones, and the construction of retaining walls in erosion-prone areas as part of the University’s broader environmental conservation strategy.

Through these initiatives, USTM said it remains committed to its vision of creating a Green Campus that promotes ecological conservation, responsible resource management, and sustainable development.