Ambuja Foundation, in partnership with Indian
Hotels Company (IHCL), have announced the Integrated Water Resource Development Project, an initiative aimed
at combating water scarcity and soil salinization in the Gir forest and the
coastal zones of Una and Gir Gadhada in Gujarat. This strategic collaboration
will implement sustainable solutions that will positively impact the
livelihoods of communities in the region.
IHCL,
a prominent Tata Group company with a portfolio of over 300 hotels worldwide, will
leverage its resources and expertise alongside Ambuja Foundation to replicate
the successful Kodinar coastal area
development model in the adjacent river basin of Rupen in Una and Gir
Gadhada. These areas have been identified as critical zones facing challenges
related to water scarcity, salinity, and low agricultural income.
The project will focus on rejuvenating village ponds through desilting and strengthening processes as well as filtration of wells to enhance groundwater recharge. This also includes plans to promote the construction of rooftop rainwater harvesting structures (RRWHS) in coastal villages to immediately address acute drinking water shortages. A pivotal component of the initiative is the construction and renovation of check dams along the Rupen River to support rainwater harvesting, recharge groundwater, and restore existing water bodies while creating new ones. The project will also implement water literacy programs designed to educate communities about the importance of water conservation and efficient usage. These efforts are expected to spur economic growth and build resilience in the rural communities of the area.
Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal of IHCL, stated, “Our ESG+ framework
of Paathya represents IHCL’s commitment to giving back to society by pioneering
sustainable practices and driving community-focused initiatives. This
collaborative effort with Ambuja Foundation aims to restore and conserve vital
natural resources while simultaneously uplifting the livelihoods of the
communities we serve. The initiative will restore ecological balance and
improve agricultural productivity in these regions.”
He
added, “This project in Gujarat is a testament
to IHCL’s belief in a future where businesses act as a catalyst for positive change, contributing to
a resilient and inclusive economy.”
Commenting
on the partnership, Pearl Tiwari, CEO, Ambuja Foundation, said, “We are committed to empowering
local communities and restoring the ecosystem through sustainable water
resource development and management. By increasing surface and groundwater
availability in the Gir area, we aim to improve farmers' income, ensure water
security, and enhance livelihoods in the region. We have a long-standing
association with the Tatas, having worked together in the past with the Tata
Trusts to reverse salinity ingress in the Kodinar region. Their passion and
commitment to solving the many problems of rural India, including water, is in
alignment with our own mission and by working together we can pool our expertise
and resources, learn from one another, and amplify our impact, ” .
This project
builds on the successful track record of Ambuja Foundation and IHCL in implementing
water strategies
that have previously led to significant improvements in salinity
prevention, water table improvement, and overall community
prosperity. Last year, IHCL collaborated with Ambuja Foundation to offer
infrastructure and training support for a skill training hospitality course in
Rajasthan. IHCL provided training facilities and practical knowledge at Taj
Properties, including on-the-job training opportunities, exposure visits, and
placement facilitation.
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