The Aravalli Range, India’s oldest mountain range, plays a significant role in the ecological health of the region. The range acts as a natural barrier, preventing the desert from encroaching further into the subcontinent. However, the Aravalli Range faces several significant threats from illegal mining, deforestation, encroachments, pollution and climate change.
While all the factors mentioned contribute to the decline of wildlife in the Gurugram-Faridabad Aravalli Hills, water scarcity remains a particularly pressing concern. The Noorpur Pond restoration project demonstrates the potential of water conservation and ecosystem restoration in the Aravalli region.
The Noorpur Pond is a 1.38-acre water body in Pataudi Block of Gurgaon District, Haryana. The pond faced many challenges such as dumping of household municipal waste and overgrowth of invasive vegetation, making it appear like a dumpsite. Due to the absence of embankments, the pond was prone to encroachment threats. With an undulated pond bed and silt deposition over the years, the pond had lost its water holding capacity.
E.F.I in collaboration with HDB Financial Services and the Government of Haryana took on the task of restoring the Noorpur Pond.
The initial phase of the restoration involved a comprehensive cleanup effort. Invasive weed species were removed, and the lake bed was cleared of non-biodegradable trash. Approximately 750 kilograms of garbage were collected and transported to the dumping yard using tractors.
The accumulation of excess silt had significantly reduced the pond’s water-holding capacity. To address this issue, an average of 2-3 feet of silt was removed from the lake bed. The excavated silt was then used to level the uneven surface, optimizing the pond’s storage capacity.
The excavated silt was repurposed to reinforce the pond’s damaged and weakened embankments. A dual embankment was constructed to enhance the pond’s water-holding capacity, prevent soil erosion, and improve its resilience to floods. A total of 300 meters of embankments with an average height of 8 feet and top width of 8-10 feet was constructed and strengthened.
A 20-foot diameter, 4-5 feet deep pit was excavated at the pond’s center to serve as a recharge well. This innovative feature facilitates groundwater recharge and simultaneously concentrates silt in a specific area, simplifying pond maintenance efforts.
To safeguard the pond from human interference, garbage dumping and encroachments, a 300-meter perimeter fence was installed. Iron mesh and barbed wire have been used to create a secure barrier around the pond.
Noorpur pond which was once overtaken by invasive weed species and siltation is today restored back to its natural state. With all its new features such as dual embankments, sedimentary cum recharge pits and protective fencing, the Noorpur pond is now a viable water source to the nearby fields and villages. By creating a thriving aquatic ecosystem, the project has not only provided a vital water source for the surrounding communities but has also attracted a diverse range of wildlife.
The restoration of Noorpur Pond is part of a larger effort to protect and conserve the Aravalli Range and its associated ecosystems. By safeguarding this vital water body, we are also helping to preserve the delicate balance of nature in this region.
Volunteer for India and her Environment with E.F.I