Keeping a lake alive by weaving weeds into baskets

In an attempt to figure out inclusive ways to harvest and use weeds that are grown in the Kaikondrahalli lake, a city-based NGO has organised a workshop for a varied group of people, including children, in the vicinity of the lake on creating utilitarian products out of weeds.

"Plenty of weeds in the lake help keep our water clear as they suck the nutrients present in the water. But if the same weeds are allowed to grow unchecked, they will gradually turn into biomass and shrink our lakes. In an attempt to figure out some way to harvest and use these weeds, we have organised this exploratory workshop," said Priya Ramasubban, founder trustee, MAPSAS.

Many people living near the lake have been a part of the workshop, held every Sunday, for the past few weeks. They are being trained on how to convert the weeds into utility products. Around 7 to 10 members have been attending the workshop and the trainers are encouraging more people to participate.

"The workshop is so fun. I also bring my children here. We have learnt how to weave beautiful baskets here. If we continue to do this, there is some scope in future for us to earn an additional income," said Lakshmamma, who works as a security guard at Kaikondrahalli.

Priya said these women and the NGO are working to figure out a way to contribute to keeping the lake clear of weeds, while trying to convert weeds into useful products at the same time. "Once the women have developed that skill, we will find out how they would like to take things forward, and we'll jointly take the next step."