Gurugram, India: HDB Financial Services (HDBFS), a leading non-banking financial institution completed the restoration of four waterbodies in the city – Sanpka, Tatarpur, Kharkari, and Alipur Ponds, in an effort to revitalise and renew these waterbodies. The eco-restoration is performed as a collaborative effort with HDB’s CSR partner Environmentalist Foundation of India.
As a part of the restoration work, following activities were carried out:
Removed 13.5 tonnes of garbage from the lake periphery
Removed invasive weeds through mechanical and manual process
Excavated sediment deposited on the lakebed over the years, used the excavated silt to strengthen the bunds, and nesting islands to attract birds
Cleared blocked inlet and outlet channels to channelize the flow of water
Created percolation trenches to help recharge groundwater table
Constructed embankments along the perimeter of the lake to prevent flooding
Prior to this initiative, the four ponds did not have proper structure and invasive weeds and non-biodegradable waste had taken over the ponds embankments. The water had turned murky and stagnant, thus disturbing the aquatic life.
The restoration of these water bodies has benefitted over 9,000 individuals. Residents in the vicinity will largely benefit with this initiative as it will make the ponds visually appealing and safer for recreational activities. Further, it would also help prevent flood-like situation as the ponds will be able to store the excess water.
Rakesh Kumar, National Head – Two Wheelers & Auto-Loans, HDB Financial Services, said “Waterbodies are fast depleting, and collective efforts are required to restore them to reverse the impact of climate change. HDB Financial Services, through its CSR initiatives, is committed to the cause of water security, and the efforts taken towards restoring four ponds in Gurugram is a step in this direction. The restored ponds will aid in recharging the natural aquifers and maintain the ecological balance in the region.”
Arun Krishnamurthy, Founder, Environmentalist Foundation of India, said: “Ecologically, surface water bodies play a key role in balancing the local environment, regulating the surplus flood waters during monsoon periods, keeping lake surroundings cool, recharging of ground water sources, nurturing wetland ecosystems and providing feeding & breeding grounds to many local and migratory birds. Further, surface water bodies facilitate in creating recreational centres and open space for social exchange in the urban world. We are grateful to HDB Financial Services and the local Panchayat President for extending their support to restore the waterbodies in Gurugram.
Until date, HDBFS has supported restoration of over 100 waterbodies across India in an attempt to maintain the ecological balance and help communities attain water security.
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