In photo: Kalkere Lake, Bengaluru. Image used for representation.
Bengaluru, India: The Indian Army, 3one4Capital, and HandsOnCSR by That’s Eco Foundation have completed the successful restoration of a polluted aquifer, now known as Eagle’s Nest Lake. The 8-acre shallow aquifer was plagued by pollution, invasive species, and diminished water capacity. Recognizing the ecological and community value of the water body, the restoration project, led by HandsOnCSR, began with support from 3one4 Capital. Their vision has turned this neglected aquifer into a thriving, clean lake, showcasing the power of effective environmental restoration.
The restoration effort commenced following a Bhoomi Puja ceremony on March 25, 2024. The initiative saw active participation from all the stakeholders, including the Indian Army led by General Brar Singh, 3one4 Capital represented by Siddarth Pai, and HandsOnCSR led by Gurunandan Rao M and his team.
The restoration involved removing invasive shrubs, desilting, and strengthening the bunds, resulting in better water storage, enhanced biodiversity, and improved water quality. The aquifer has been transformed from a polluted water body into a freshwater reservoir, addressing the health and environmental concerns caused by sewage contamination in the surrounding area.
Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar remarked, “The revitalization of the lake has restored a vital ecological asset and created a serene recreational space for our families. We are grateful for the support from 3one4 Capital, acknowledge their valuable contribution, and applaud the efforts of HandsOnCSR for leading this transformative project.” Reflecting on the Indian Army’s recent HDAR mission in Wayanad, the General added, “While the Indian Army is the first responder to such disasters, we also take it upon ourselves to restore the environment. The Ecological TA Battalion is a shining example, with their afforestation efforts are clearly visible in the Kumaon and Garhwal mountains.”
Siddarth Pai, Founding Partner of 3one4 Capital, said, “3one4 Capital is proud to have played a pivotal role in the successful restoration of this aquifer into a lake. This project exemplifies our firm’s dedication to environmental stewardship and community upliftment. The positive outcomes, including improved water quality and increased biodiversity, demonstrate the tangible benefits of public-private partnerships in addressing critical environmental challenges.”
Gurunandan Rao M and Harsha Tej, Trustees of HandsOnCSR by That’s Eco Foundation, expressed their collective pride, stating, “This project is a testimony to what can be achieved through collective efforts. Discovering the shallow aquifer was especially exciting as it opens up new sustainable water management opportunities. What once held sewage now holds fresh water, and one can even drink from it. It’s incredible to see this vision come to reality, standing through sun and rain, and witnessing this lake come into existence through our joint endeavors.”
Major General VT Mathews, YSM, AVSM, GOC K & K Sub Area, emphasized that the Indian Army has been actively contributing to environmental restoration and fostering community connections by developing various parks within Army Cantonments, all aimed at restoring the past glory of Green Bengaluru.
The restoration is set to significantly enhance water retention, increasing its capacity by 200%, and improve water security for the area. It is also expected to recharge borewells within a 2-kilometer radius, potentially raising groundwater levels by up to 3 inches. Additionally, the project included planting 400 native trees, which are estimated to sequester about 10,000 kilograms of carbon annually.
Once home to around 1,000 lakes, Bengaluru now has far fewer, many of which have been lost due to urbanization and infrastructure development. Restoring water bodies like this aquifer to establish lakes such as Eagle’s Nest at the 515 Army Base Workshop is essential for enhancing water storage, supporting groundwater recharge, and maintaining urban biodiversity. These conservation efforts help mitigate the effects of urbanization, ensure sustainable water resources, and provide green spaces for the community.
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