14 August 2024: Ambuja Foundation, in partnership with Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), has announced the Integrated Water Resource Development Project, an initiative aimed at combating water scarcity and soil salinization in the Gir forest and the coastal zones of Una and Gir Gadhada in Gujarat. This strategic collaboration will implement sustainable solutions that will positively impact the livelihoods of communities in the region.
IHCL, a prominent Tata Group company with a portfolio of over 300 hotels worldwide, will leverage its resources and expertise alongside the Ambuja Foundation to replicate the successful Kodinar coastal area development model in the adjacent river basin of Rupen in Una and Gir Gadhada. These areas have been identified as critical zones facing water scarcity, salinity, and low agricultural income challenges.
The project will focus on rejuvenating village ponds through desilting and strengthening processes as well as the filtration of wells to enhance groundwater recharge. This also includes plans to promote the construction of rooftop rainwater harvesting structures (RRWHS) in coastal villages to immediately address acute drinking water shortages. A pivotal component of the initiative is the construction and renovation of check dams along the Rupen River to support rainwater harvesting, recharge groundwater, and restore existing water bodies while creating new ones. The project will also implement water literacy programs designed to educate communities about the importance of water conservation and efficient usage. These efforts are expected to spur economic growth and build resilience in the rural communities of the area.
Mr. Gaurav Pokhariyal of IHCL stated, “Our ESG+ framework of Paathya represents IHCL’s commitment to giving back to society by pioneering sustainable practices and driving community-focused initiatives. This collaborative effort with the Ambuja Foundation aims to restore and conserve vital natural resources while simultaneously uplifting the livelihoods of the communities we serve. The initiative will restore ecological balance and improve agricultural productivity in these regions.”
He added, “This project in Gujarat is a testament to IHCL’s belief in a future where businesses act as catalysts for positive change, contributing to a resilient and inclusive economy.” Commenting on the partnership, Ms. Pearl Tiwari, CEO of the Ambuja Foundation, said, “We are committed to empowering local communities and restoring the ecosystem through sustainable water resource development and management. By increasing surface and groundwater availability in the Gir area, we aim to improve farmers’ income, ensure water security, and enhance livelihoods in the region. We have a long-standing association with the Tatas, having worked together in the past with the Tata Trusts to reverse salinity ingress in the Kodinar region. Their passion and commitment to solving the many problems of rural India, including water, is in alignment with our mission, and by working together, we can pool our expertise and resources, learn from one another, and amplify our impact.”
This project builds on the successful track record of the Ambuja Foundation and IHCL in implementing water strategies that have previously led to significant improvements in salinity prevention, water table improvement, and overall community prosperity. Last year, IHCL collaborated with the Ambuja Foundation to offer infrastructure and training support for a skill-training hospitality course in Rajasthan. IHCL provided training facilities and practical knowledge at Taj Properties, including on-the-job training opportunities, exposure visits, and placement facilitation.