The waterbody in between the Hiranandani properties has been overgrown by invasive species such as the Prosopis Juliflora. Its bunds were nearly non-existent.

The first couple of activities have been completed successfully. Pongal@Pond activity kickstarted the restoration efforts. Lots of garbage was cleared out by the local community, connecting them to their water body on the way.

The community event also symbolised the inauguration of the work of big machines: as the first step, invasive weeds were removed from the pond’s bunds, leaving the native trees behind. Invasive species take the limited space, nutrient & water available to native plants and, in turn, stop them from growing. In addition, the large-scale outgrowth has led to a decrease in water-holding capacity and a nutrient-rich waterbody. Plants like the neem tree will be the base of an original habitat for birds and other animals.

The next step included the de-silting of the waterbody. Due to an abundance of nutrients inside the water, sludge has built up on the pond-bed. This silt was used to build and strengthen the limited bunding. The excavator
first formed and later strengthened the bunds. Now, the bunds are clearly visible. Well-structured bunding has the ability to hold more water inside the pond. This also increases the ability to let water percolate.

The restoration is not over just yet. Plantation works will start in the following weeks in volvingoperation with the local community.

Already the amount of birds which can be seen at Egattur pond has increased a lot. Species from kingfisher to moorhen and cormorant are new regulars at the waterbody and its green island in the middle.

Volunteer for India & her environment with E.F.I.

~Jai Hind~