Indian Army, 3one4 Capital, and HandsOnCSR restore Bengaluru’s polluted lake
The eight-acre shallow aquifer was polluted, had invasive species, and diminished water capacity. This condition birthed the restoration project, which started on March 25, 2024.
At the Army Base Workshop in Halsuru, Trinity Circle, Bengaluru, a once polluted aquifer—now known as Eagle’s Nest Lake—has been completely restored.
This is a collective effort of the Indian Army led by General Brar Singh, 3one4 Capital represented by Siddarth Pai, and HandsOnCSR led by Gurunandan Rao M and his team.
The eight-acre shallow aquifer was polluted, had invasive species, and diminished water capacity. This condition birthed the restoration project, which started on March 25, 2024.
Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar said, “The revitalisation of the lake has restored a vital ecological asset and created a serene recreational space for our families.”
“We are grateful for the support from 3one4 Capital, acknowledge their valuable contribution, and applaud the efforts of HandsOnCSR for leading this transformative project,” he added.
The restoration involved clearing invasive shrubs, desilting, and strengthening the bunds. The restoration is expected to increase water storage capacity by 200% and recharge borewells within a 2-kilometer radius, potentially raising groundwater levels by up to 3 inches. It is also expected to boost biodiversity and enhance water quality.
Additionally, under the project 400 native trees were planted which are further expected to sequester around 10,000 kilograms of carbon annually.
Siddarth Pai, Founding Partner of 3one4 Capital, said, “This project exemplifies our firm's dedication to environmental stewardship and community upliftment. The positive outcomes, including improved water quality and increased biodiversity, demonstrate the tangible benefits of public-private partnerships in addressing critical environmental challenges."
In the same vein Gurunandan Rao M and Harsha Tej, Trustees of HandsOnCSR by That's Eco Foundation, acknowledged the power of collective efforts.
“Discovering the shallow aquifer was especially exciting as it opens up new sustainable water management opportunities. What once held sewage now holds fresh water, and one can even drink from it. It’s incredible to see this vision come to reality, standing through sun and rain, and witnessing this lake come into existence through our joint endeavours,” he added.
Talking about the Indian Army's recent HDAR mission in Wayanad, the General added, “While the Indian Army is the first responder to such disasters, we also take it upon ourselves to restore the environment. The Ecological TA Battalion is a shining example, with their afforestation efforts are clearly visible in the Kumaon and Garhwal mountains.”
Further, Major General VT Mathews, YSM, AVSM, GOC K & K Sub Area, highlighted the Indian Army's role in environmental restoration by developing parks within Army Cantonments to strengthen community ties.
Edited by Affirunisa Kankudti