Hinduja Foundation, Indian Army restore Hannikallu Marsh

The Hinduja Foundation, in collaboration with the Indian Army, has successfully restored the Hannikallu Marsh, a fragile wetland habitat located in Wellington, Coonor. This initiative is part of the Foundation’s flagship CSR programme, Jal Jeevan, aimed at promoting water rejuvenation.

The restored Eco Park was inaugurated by Mr. Paul Abraham, President of the Hinduja Foundation, and Brigadier SK Yadav, Commandant of the Madras Regimental Centre. The project involved extensive restoration efforts, including removing invasive plant species, restoring vegetation, and creating wildlife habitats. Additionally, ten mountain springs were restored, a peripheral walkers' path was created, and a check dam was constructed.

The restoration of Hannikallu Marsh is expected to benefit over 25,000 residents by recharging groundwater aquifers and reducing evaporation losses. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mission Amrit Sarovar, which aims to restore 75 water bodies in each district.

Paul Abraham, President of the Hinduja Foundation, emphasized the urgency of water conservation, stating: “Water crisis is becoming a pressing issue in India. According to government reports, at least 40% of India's 1.3 billion population may lack reliable access to drinking water by 2030. Our flagship cause, Water Stewardship, aims to address this challenge.”

Brigadier SK Yadav highlighted the project’s alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Mission Amrit Sarovar, which aims to restore 75 water bodies in each district. He noted: “This eco-park stands on what was once a significant natural watershed. Through collaborative efforts and support from various stakeholders, we have transformed it into a thriving eco-park, reflecting our commitment to restoring natural resources.”

The Hinduja Foundation has been actively involved in water conservation initiatives across India, impacting over 4 million lives in the past 5 years. Through its Jal Jeevan program, the Foundation has enabled groundwater recharge, provided safe drinking water, and restored numerous water bodies, including heritage stepwells.