Monitoring Groundwater for a Sustainable Future Posted on June 14, 2026June 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next As part of the Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Program, regular groundwater monitoring activities were carried out during the month across 22 designated monitoring sites. These observations play a crucial role in understanding groundwater availability, seasonal fluctuations, and the overall health of local water resources.The monitoring process involved measuring water level depths and recording key observations that help track changes in groundwater conditions over time. The data collected contributes to a growing knowledge base that supports informed decision-making for water resource management and conservation planning.Beyond data collection, the activity also served as an important awareness-building initiative. Students, teachers, and community members were introduced to concepts such as groundwater recharge, rainwater harvesting, water conservation, and sustainable water management practices. Through discussions and practical demonstrations, participants gained a better understanding of the challenges facing groundwater resources and the actions that can be taken to protect them.The initiative highlights the importance of combining scientific monitoring with community engagement. By involving local stakeholders in the process, the program encourages greater responsibility towards water conservation while fostering a deeper appreciation for the vital role groundwater plays in supporting daily life, agriculture, and ecosystems.Through continued monitoring and awareness efforts, the MAR program is helping build a foundation for long-term water security, environmental sustainability, and resilient communities.
Groundwater Monitoring and Water Quality Assessment Posted on May 20, 2026May 20, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next Systematic groundwater level monitoring was carried out across 22 designated sites as part of the ongoing water resource assessment program. The primary objective of this activity was to observe seasonal fluctuations in groundwater levels and understand the current status of water availability across different locations. The monitoring exercise provided valuable insights into groundwater variation patterns, helping in identifying areas of concern as well as zones with relatively stable water levels. This regular tracking plays an important role in supporting long-term water resource planning and sustainable management practices. In addition to groundwater level measurements, water samples were collected from all 22 sites for detailed water quality analysis. These samples are being assessed for key physico-chemical parameters to evaluate the suitability of groundwater for various uses. The combined approach of level monitoring and quality testing ensures a comprehensive understanding of both the quantity and quality aspects of groundwater resources. Overall, the April 2026 monitoring activity contributes significantly toward building a reliable dataset for informed decision-making and strengthening water conservation and management efforts in the region.
Eco Restoration of Manamedu Eri_WaterFest’26 Posted on March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya The Eco Restoration of Manamedu Eri initiative was carried out in March 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to revive local water bodies and strengthen ecological resilience in the region. The restoration activity was undertaken in collaboration with the Manamedu Eri Sangam, Svarnim Puducherry, and partners from the Sri Aurobindo Society, with support from Marico and the Government of Puducherry. The initiative focused on restoring the ecological health of Manamedu Eri, a vital local water body that plays an important role in supporting groundwater recharge, biodiversity, and community livelihoods. The project aimed to revive the water system, restore surrounding biodiversity, and strengthen community participation in protecting and maintaining the ecosystem. Through coordinated efforts involving local stakeholders and volunteers, activities were carried out to improve the ecological condition of the lake and its surroundings. The initiative emphasized the importance of community stewardship in sustaining natural resources and highlighted how restoring water bodies can contribute to environmental balance and long-term water security. The project reflects a shared commitment toward reviving water ecosystems, restoring biodiversity, and rebuilding community connections with nature, ensuring that Manamedu Eri continues to serve as a valuable ecological and social resource for the region
The initiative focused on restoring the ecological health of Manamedu Eri, a vital local water body that plays an important role in supporting groundwater recharge, biodiversity, and community livelihoods. The project aimed to revive the water system, restore surrounding biodiversity, and strengthen community participation in protecting and maintaining the ecosystem. Through coordinated efforts involving local stakeholders and volunteers, activities were carried out to improve the ecological condition of the lake and its surroundings. The initiative emphasized the importance of community stewardship in sustaining natural resources and highlighted how restoring water bodies can contribute to environmental balance and long-term water security. The project reflects a shared commitment toward reviving water ecosystems, restoring biodiversity, and rebuilding community connections with nature, ensuring that Manamedu Eri continues to serve as a valuable ecological and social resource for the region
CEPA Workshop Posted on March 14, 2026March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Screenshot A CEPA (Communication, Education, Participation and Awareness) Workshop was conducted as part of the Water Fest 2026 activities to promote environmental awareness and community participation in water conservation. The workshop brought together community members to discuss the importance of protecting wetlands, water bodies, and local ecosystems. During the session, participants engaged in interactive discussions, group activities, and knowledge-sharing exercisesfocused on sustainable water management and environmental responsibility. The workshop encouraged community members to reflect on local environmental challenges and explore practical ways to conserve water resources. The program created a space for learning, dialogue, and collaboration, motivating participants to actively contribute to environmental protection and sustainable practices within their communities.
WaterFest’26 – Inaugural Program Posted on March 14, 2026March 14, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next The Waterfest26 was inaugurated at the Pondy Yatch Club on 2nd February. The day’s program included a kayaking session to clean the plastic waste ridden mangroves at the Thengaithittu estuary where within a period of just one hour, about 250kg of waste were removed by volunteers. This was followed by a citizens science session using the iNaturalist app attended by about 30 children and the session was handled by Kavita Dutta of Sri Aurobindo Society. Later a session on the importance of water quality monitoring was taken by Sanjivi of Svarnim Puducherry where children did hands on training on water quality monitoring. There was also an exhibition on wetlands’ biodiversity, of handcrafted water hyacinth products, a motor boat ride through the mangroves etc. Ms.Sankaradevi an expert on mangroves explained the ecology of the mangroves to the participants and she also did an awareness session with the children. The inaugural session was attended and felicitated by Mr Joseph Victor Raj of HOPE, Mr D Balasubramaniam of Pondicherry Science Forum, Mr Munisamy of the Confderation of Govt Employees Association and Mr Arul of TADCEM Foundation, Cuddalore. An overview of the Waterfest26 was given by Mr Raghunath of Sri Aurobindo Society and the Inaugural address was given by Er K. Kalamegam of DSTE who spoke on the need for all stakeholders to come together for the common water-secure future of the region. Later a vote of thanks was proposed by Ms. Anjali, the co-founder of Pondy Yatch Club who hosted the programme. Auro Filio from PondyCAN and other volunteers from Udhavikarangal, Deepsthal School and Inspa Robotics extended the support. The Waterfest26 is being organised every year by the collective Alliance for Good Governance comprising of Pondicherry Science Forum, PondyCAN, Sri Aurobindo Society, Hope and the CGEA taking the lead roles and will have several bio-regional events being planned till 22nd March 2026 which is the World Wetlands Day.
Managed Aquifer Recharging | February 2026 Posted on March 14, 2026March 19, 2026 by Divya Priya During February 2026, several activities were carried out as part of the project initiatives to promote water awareness, monitoring, and sustainable practices among students and schools.A Water Audit Programme was conducted in one school with the participation of 19 students. The students actively engaged in analyzing daily water usage within their school campus. As part of the audit, they estimated water consumption for drinking, handwashing before and after meals, post-toilet use, and watering plants. The students also prepared a campus map, recorded the total storage capacity of water tanks, noted the frequency of refilling, and calculated the overall daily water consumption. Additionally, they worked out the per capita water usage of both teaching and non-teaching staff, helping them gain practical knowledge about water conservation and responsible water use.Regular fortnightly monitoring of groundwater levels and water quality testing was conducted at 22 locations across Puducherry. These activities help track groundwater conditions and ensure the safety and quality of drinking water.Under the Kitchen Garden Initiative, follow-up visits were conducted in 9 schools to review progress, provide guidance, and encourage students to actively participate in sustainable gardening practices.
Water Bodies Conservation – Reviving Community Ponds through Desilting Posted on January 13, 2026January 13, 2026 by Divya Priya Previous Next Under the Bandhan Bank Project, focused efforts toward water body conservation continued this month with the desilting of village ponds in Pillayarkuppam. The desilting work is an important ecological and community intervention, as many traditional ponds gradually lose their water-holding capacity due to silt deposition, weed growth, and neglect. By removing accumulated silt, the depth and storage capacity of the ponds are restored, helping them recharge groundwater more effectively during the monsoon. The activity also supports improved access to clean water for local communities, strengthens climate resilience, and enhances biodiversity around the ponds. Desilted ponds act as vital recharge structures, benefiting wells and borewells in the surrounding areas and supporting agriculture, livestock, and domestic use. Local residents actively engaged in the process, witnessing the transformation of a neglected water body into a functional community resource. Beyond the physical restoration, the programme emphasizes awareness about the cultural and ecological value of traditional ponds. The work in Pillayarkuppam marks another meaningful step toward restoring village water heritage, supporting sustainable water management, and ensuring that these vital ecosystems continue to benefit both people and nature in the long term.
Under the Bandhan Bank Project, focused efforts toward water body conservation continued this month with the desilting of village ponds in Pillayarkuppam. The desilting work is an important ecological and community intervention, as many traditional ponds gradually lose their water-holding capacity due to silt deposition, weed growth, and neglect. By removing accumulated silt, the depth and storage capacity of the ponds are restored, helping them recharge groundwater more effectively during the monsoon. The activity also supports improved access to clean water for local communities, strengthens climate resilience, and enhances biodiversity around the ponds. Desilted ponds act as vital recharge structures, benefiting wells and borewells in the surrounding areas and supporting agriculture, livestock, and domestic use. Local residents actively engaged in the process, witnessing the transformation of a neglected water body into a functional community resource. Beyond the physical restoration, the programme emphasizes awareness about the cultural and ecological value of traditional ponds. The work in Pillayarkuppam marks another meaningful step toward restoring village water heritage, supporting sustainable water management, and ensuring that these vital ecosystems continue to benefit both people and nature in the long term.
Managed Aquifer Recharge: Monthly Progress Update Posted on December 6, 2025December 6, 2025 by Divya Priya Previous Next Significant progress was achieved across all major infrastructure components of the Marico phase 2, Managed Aquifer Recharge project.Rainwater harvesting installations were completed in 81 sites, meeting 100% of the planned target.Grey-water treatment systems reached 60% completion, and all operational units achieved 100% efficiency in reuse, supporting garden irrigation and site-level water recycling.Parallel to this, monitoring systems were strengthened with the successful installation of 20 rain gauges and the continued fortnightly tracking of 23 groundwater monitoring wells, ensuring consistent data collection for hydro-ecological assessment and future planning.Awareness and literacy activities also progressed strongly, with full completion of all scheduled capacity-building initiatives. A total of six teacher and student workshops were conducted, focusing on water conservation, greywater reuse, and safe water practices.Additionally, water audits were carried out in 5 schools, engaging students for water stewardship. These combined efforts in infrastructure development, monitoring, and community awareness reflect a well-rounded advancement of project goals for the month and contribute meaningfully toward long-term water sustainability in the intervention areas.As part of the hydrogeological assessment, an aquifer monitoring inventory was carried out in 200 borewells across seven villages in the Bahour region. This initiative provides critical baseline data on groundwater levels, recharge potential, and aquifer stress zones for guiding future water management interventions.A total of 23 dugwells were surveyed to record static water levels and assess seasonal groundwater variation in Pooranankuppam village as part of the Aquifer Monitoring in Puducherry region.
Strengthening Water Resilience: MAR Programme Across 70 Sites Posted on November 9, 2025November 9, 2025 by Divya Priya Previous Next Svarnim Puducherry implemented a comprehensive Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) programme across 70 sites, including Primary Health Centres, school buildings, and community areas, to enhance groundwater availability and promote long-term water security.The initiative involved the construction of percolation pits and recharge wells that enable rainwater to percolate into the ground, replenishing aquifers and strengthening the region’s resilience against water scarcity. This nature-based approach supports sustainable resource management and ensures water availability for communities throughout the year.Complementing these efforts, ten kitchen gardens were developed within schools and institutional campuses. These gardens not only utilized harvested rainwater but also served as practical models linking water conservation to sustainable food production, inspiring students and local residents to adopt eco-friendly practices.To ensure continuous learning and accountability, twenty rain gauges were strategically installed to record rainfall data and evaluate recharge effectiveness. The systematic monitoring of rainfall and groundwater performance allows for data-driven insights and adaptive management of water systems, ensuring the continued success and scalability of the MAR initiative.Through these collective actions, Svarnim Puducherry reaffirms its commitment to building community-based climate resilience and promoting integrated water conservation practices for a sustainable future.