India is at a crossroads when it comes to water conservation. With depleting groundwater levels, erratic rainfall, and a growing demand for water, the country faces a severe crisis. Cities run dry, rural regions battle drought, and natural water bodies shrink under the pressure. But amidst these challenges, individuals and communities across the nation are taking action—restoring rivers, reviving stepwells, and implementing sustainable water management techniques.
By adopting traditional wisdom alongside modern innovations, these grassroots efforts offer a glimmer of hope for India’s water future. Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring water conservation initiatives from across the country—from the northernmost regions to the southern tip.
Northern India: Reclaiming Ancient Wisdom
- Reviving Stepwells in Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir
Dr. Vijay Atri, along with local residents, launched the Bowli Bachao Abhiyan in 2021, successfully reviving 65 stepwells within four months. These efforts have restored natural springs, improved groundwater recharge, and provided sustainable water sources to surrounding communities. - Cleaning the Kali Bein River, Punjab
Eco-activist Balbir Singh Seechewal spearheaded a community-driven initiative to remove industrial and domestic waste from the 160-km-long Kali Bein river. His model of large-scale river cleaning has inspired similar projects across the country.
Uttar Pradesh & Bihar: Strengthening Rural Resilience
- Restoring 75 Ponds in Bundelkhand, Uttar Pradesh
Rambabu Tiwari, who began working on water conservation at just 17, mobilized villagers to desilt and restore 75 ponds. His efforts have significantly improved irrigation and helped combat drought in the region. - Sitamarhi’s Soak Pit Initiative, Bihar
A community-led project, supported by UNICEF, saw the construction of 2,168 soak pits in a single day. These structures help prevent water wastage, recharge groundwater, and improve sanitation in schools, health centers, and police stations.
Rajasthan & Madhya Pradesh: Harnessing Rainwater and Restoring Ponds
- Aakar Charitable Trust’s Check Dams, Rajasthan
Led by Amla Ruia, this initiative has built over 200 check dams in 100 villages, ensuring water availability for more than two lakh people and transforming agricultural productivity. - Reviving the Yam Talaiya Pond, Madhya Pradesh
IAS officer Anshul Gupta, with the help of 125 volunteers, restored the Yam Talaiya pond without government funding, increasing its water-holding capacity and reviving aquatic life.
Maharashtra: Fighting Drought with Determination
- Abhay Todkar’s Drought-Relief Efforts
Despite living with polio, Abhay Todkar led a movement that brought sustainable water solutions to 64 drought-prone villages in Dahiwadi, ensuring year-round water access for thousands of families. - Ex-IRS Officer Ujjwal Kumar Chavan’s Water Projects
Ujjwal Kumar Chavan has implemented water conservation efforts in 204 villages, helping rejuvenate rivers, boost farmers’ incomes, and create long-term sustainability. - Drop Dead Foundation’s Leak-Fixing Drive, Mumbai
Founded by Aabid Surti, this NGO fixes leaking faucets across Mumbai for free, saving 4.14 lakh liters of water annually and raising awareness about the importance of water conservation.
Eastern & Southern India: Scaling Impact Through Community Action
- Tackling Saltwater Intrusion in Sundarbans
The SEED initiative has introduced sustainable water management techniques to combat saltwater intrusion, improving drinking water quality and menstrual health through rainwater harvesting. - Women-Led Spring Revival in Nagaland
Khrolhiweu Tsuhah, in partnership with the North East Initiative Development Agency (NEIDA), led a project that revived 99 natural springs, benefiting 12,000 water-scarce households. - Lake and Borewell Restoration in Hyderabad
Architect and activist Kalpana Ramesh mobilized 200 families to restore defunct borewells and implement rainwater harvesting techniques, significantly improving groundwater levels in urban Hyderabad. - Tank Revival and Drip Irrigation in Karnataka
Dr. LC Soans saved the Kadala Kere tank in Moodbidri from drying up and pioneered pineapple cultivation using drip irrigation, showcasing water-efficient farming practices. - Community-Led Pond and Lake Restorations in Tamil Nadu
With support from the Environmentalist Foundation of India, an IAS-led initiative has revived multiple water bodies, improving urban flood management and restoring ecological balance. - Haritha Keralam Mission’s River Restoration in Kerala
A state-run initiative successfully revived the Kanampuzha River with the participation of 5,000 local volunteers, enhancing water conservation and ecological restoration in the region.
A Blueprint for a Water-Secure Future
From ancient stepwells in the north to pond restorations in the south, these initiatives showcase the power of collective action. Each of these efforts—whether led by citizens, officials, or NGOs—demonstrates that with determination and sustainable practices, India can combat its water crisis and build a more secure future.
The path forward is clear: by scaling such models, investing in community-driven solutions, and integrating traditional wisdom with modern technology, India can turn its water crisis into a movement of resilience and regeneration. If more regions adopt these sustainable practices, a water-secure India is not just a dream—it is an achievable reality.