Gurgaon is taking a significant step toward environmental sustainability by reviving 75 ponds and water bodies across the city. This ambitious initiative, which began in 2022, is now 65% complete and is set to transform neglected water bodies into thriving ecosystems that support biodiversity, replenish groundwater, and mitigate urban flooding.
As part of the Haryana government’s #Amrit Sarovar Mission, this project aligns with the broader goal of restoring 8,000 water bodies across the state with a budget of Rs 1,000 crore. The Haryana Pond and Waste Water Management Authority, in collaboration with research firm The Celestial Earth, is documenting this progress, emphasizing the importance of preserving natural water resources.
A New Lease of Life for Gurgaon’s Waterbodies
These restored ponds, including those in Sector 12, Bhondsi, Dhankot, Daultabad, Bajghera, Kadarpur, and Ghata Jheel, are being transformed into green spaces with plantation drives, walking tracks, and other amenities to foster community engagement. The city has been divided into four zones for efficient project execution:
- Zone 1: 64% of 17 ponds across 33.6 acres have been restored.
- Zone 2: 44% of 18 ponds covering 51.6 acres have been revived.
- Zone 3: 88% of 12 ponds across 28 acres are near completion.
- Zone 4: 70% of 28 ponds spanning 43.4 acres have been rejuvenated.
Dr. Tania Ray Bhattacharya, Founder and CEO of The Celestial Earth, aptly describes the initiative: “Gurgaon’s waterbodies are silent witnesses to the city’s evolution — reviving them is not just an act of conservation, but a step toward a resilient and sustainable future.”
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainability
While government agencies and research institutions are leading the charge, NGOs and civic bodies have also played a crucial role in supporting these sustainability efforts. Their involvement ensures that urban expansion aligns with environmental responsibility.
The Road Ahead: Challenges & Community Involvement
Despite these commendable efforts, challenges remain. Dr. Fawzia Tarannum, strategic adviser at GuruJal, highlights the need for scientific planning, long-term sustainability and community participation. A major concern is the unchecked disposal of solid waste and cow dung in village drains, which can hinder wastewater treatment efforts.
GuruJal, a public-private integrated water management initiative under the district administration, is actively working to ensure that these restoration efforts lead to lasting change. However, true sustainability requires not just restoration but consistent maintenance and active local cooperation.
Towards a Greener Gurgaon
Gurgaon’s journey toward water conservation and ecological revival is a testament to what can be achieved when public agencies, NGOs, and local communities work together. These 75 ponds are not just water bodies—they are symbols of resilience, sustainability, and a greener future for the city.
