Expressing concern over depleting water level in some parts of the country, especially Punjab, Union Water Resources Minister Saifuddin Soz today asked the government of the northern state to take urgent measures for harvesting rain water.

“I am worried about Punjab where water level has reduced in about 500 areas, of which 60 areas have been notified,” Soz told reporters at the Jammu Press Club here.

Punjab does not have water in upper layers and water for irrigation has to be tapped from deep levels, he said, adding the state government must accept conservation and harvesting of rain water.

On the steps taken for conservation of water, Soz said his ministry has written to all states about the proposal of bringing a model bill.

“There has been good response from most of the states, including from Jammu and Kashmir,” he said adding Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is also holding a meeting with Chief Ministers of all states next month to discuss the issue.