The Pithampur region, situated approximately 35 kms from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, stands as a cornerstone of industrial activity within the state. Boasting as the largest automobile manufacturing hub in the nation, Pithampur hosts a myriad of economically significant factories and firms, contributing to the region’s economic vitality.
Nestled amidst the hill zone of Pithampur’s industrial landscape lies the expansive Tarpur lake, sprawling across 7.37 acres. This natural reservoir, formed primarily through the flow of rainwater, serves as a crucial feature of the region. Its primary water sources include two major inlets from the northeast and northwest, with a single outlet to the southwest. However, the lake faces myriad challenges exacerbated by its proximity to industrial establishments. The lake has a lowered ground level relative to its surroundings, leading to significant groundwater discharge.
Several obstacles impeded efforts to restore the lake, such as:
- Proliferation of invasive weeds with dense, thorny vegetation
- Accumulation of silt and thick sludge
- Undulated lake surface
- Inadequate Inlet and outlet infrastructure
- Lack of defined boundaries
- Damaged and discontinued embankments
- Inflow of sewage and wastewater from nearby industries
- Disturbed biodiversity system
Environmentalist Foundation of India (E.F.I) spearheaded the lake restoration initiative, undertaking a series of interventions. Initially, extensive deweeding efforts were executed to eliminate overgrown invasive species such as Parthenium, Castor, Prosopis juliflora, and Sky Lotus, which covered 80% of the lake’s surface. The removed vegetation was used to construct the islands and embankments as it will decompose and provide essential nutrition for plants to grow.
Subsequently, desilting operations were conducted to remove the excess silt accumulated for over the years. More than 4 acres of lake surface were desilted with an average depth of 3 feet. The excavated silt was then repurposed to strengthen the lake’s embankment.
New Embankment construction and strengthening of existing embankments were carried on. Double embankment was also erected along the western perimeter to mitigate soil erosion and improve resilience . Additionally, the existing concrete stop dam/bund, obscured by silt, was excavated to restore its functionality. On the eastern front, excess silt was relocated to form a 120-meter double embankment, augmenting the lake’s water retention capacity.
The restoration process also encompassed the creation of Nesting Islands, Recharge Channels and Sedimentary Pits. Clearance of inlets and outlets of the lake was carried on to improve the flow of water into the lake.
Looking ahead, the restoration initiative will also include the installation of outer fencing and the plantation of native tree species to further enhance ecological resilience and foster a sustainable environment.
