New project to address sustainable living in Bengaluru, Gurugram

Bengaluru: Program Vasundhara, a three-year initiative aimed at creating sustainable and resilient communities in Bengaluru and Gurugram, was launched on Wednesday.

The programme focuses on key areas such as water resource management, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable agriculture, with an emphasis on community empowerment and ecological restoration.

Ambitious goals for 2027

The initiative seeks to achieve significant milestones by 2027, including conserving about 710 million litres of water, restoring 24,500 acres of land, and planting 15,000 trees. Notably, an 18-million-litre rainwater harvesting structure near Aivarakhandapura Lake in Bengaluru North has already been completed, enhancing local water availability and reducing dependence on external sources.

Focus areas

The programme integrates ecosystem restoration efforts, focusing on local food systems, water resources, and medicinal plants in urban and peri-urban areas.

Adaptive measures and energy-efficient solutions are being implemented to address climate vulnerability. Livelihood-based eco-restoration projects will provide sustainable income opportunities, particularly for women, while capacity-building activities will offer technical training to local stakeholders.

Wide reach & impact

Covering 85 villages across Bengaluru and Gurugram, the initiative aims to benefit over one million people through reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and renewable energy integration.

The programme is implemented by Safe Water Network in collaboration with American Express, with a focus on strengthening biodiversity and watershed committees at local and state levels to ensure scalable and sustainable conservation practices.

AI-powered help on the anvil

Advanced technologies, such as AI-powered weather stations, will assist farmers in managing crops, optimising resource use, and preparing for extreme weather conditions.

By integrating renewable energy and promoting climate resilience, the programme is expected to directly benefit over 30,000 people while enhancing the technical capabilities of local institutions.