People to be roped in to revive ponds in cultural towns

Freshwater ponds, an important ecological feature, are fast disappearing due to pollution and encroachment. A citizen-based volunteer movement has been kickstarted to revive these habitats. Titled ‘Project Amruthavarshini’, the initiative to revive five freshwater ponds in these cultural centres is a partnership between Padma Bhushan Sudha Ragunathan (through her NGO Samudhaaya Foundation) and Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI). 

Talks have already been initiated with government authorities for the requisite permission. Over the next few weeks, work will commence on reviving neglected ponds. Arun Krishnamurthy, founder, EFI, said, “Water bodies in culturally significant centres are subjected to mass use and are eventually neglected. There is an urgent need to conserve freshwater ponds in these centres. The entire effort would be voluntary and citizens interested in environment conservation are invited to join the movement.” 

The restoration will be done in a scientific manner, he added. 

In Thiruvaiyaru, Arvindh Krishnan, an engineering student and volunteer, said, “We have studied around 10 ponds in and around Thiruvaiyaru. We will choose one or two ponds, which are in an endangered state and start restoration. The Panchayat has been cooperative and the local communities have shown interest too. In addition, we have spoken to various colleges and are involving youngsters to volunteer for the cause.”

Sudha Ragunathan, renowned Carnatic vocalist and recipient of the Padma Bhushan, termed the social project “ambitious”. “Together, we aim at making a difference to freshwater ponds in culturally important centres,” she noted.