Hinduja Foundation’s Jal Jeevan initiative to secure 124.85 million litres of clean water annually at Daund’s SRPF campus

In a major step toward sustainable water management, the Hinduja Foundation has implemented rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling systems at the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Group 5 campus in Daund, Maharashtra. The initiative, part of the Foundation’s flagship Jal Jeevan program, is expected to secure 124.85 million litres of clean water annually and directly benefit over 5,000 individuals, including 4,000 residents and 1,000 non-residents at the campus.

The project was inaugurated by Paul Abraham, President of Hinduja Foundation, alongside Ashok Morale, Inspector General of Police, SRPF. It includes the construction of six new ponds and the deepening of three existing ones, along with the installation of 11 recharge wells and overflow trenches aimed at improving groundwater recharge and preventing water runoff.

Daund, often referred to as the “granary of Maharashtra,” faces seasonal water shortages despite its proximity to major rivers like Bhima and Pavana. The Hinduja Foundation’s initiative is a timely response to the area’s chronic water stress, worsened by extreme heat, depleting groundwater levels, and inadequate storage facilities.

“Water security is a pressing challenge, especially in regions like Daund, where seasonal shortages disrupt daily life,” said Paul Abraham. “This initiative reflects our commitment to climate-resilient water management and urban greening.”

The Foundation’s comprehensive approach also includes ecological restoration efforts. Around 500 native tree saplings have been planted on the SRPF campus, achieving a 94% survival rate. The project is expected to sequester nearly 119 metric tonnes of CO₂ over the next 15 years and has reintroduced 34 indigenous plant species to help restore ecological balance.

The initiative also contributes to reviving 40 acres of agricultural land and 20 acres of forest cover. The work was implemented in collaboration with the Centre for Environmental Research & Education (CERE), the Foundation’s NGO partner.

This latest intervention adds to Hinduja Foundation’s growing footprint in water stewardship. Under the Jal Jeevan initiative, the Foundation has positively impacted five million people across 4,000+ villages in 18 states and Union Territories. It has also been involved in restoring over 100 lakes and several heritage stepwells across India, including sites in Ahmedabad, Jodhpur, Alwar, and New Delhi.

Founded in 1968, the Hinduja Foundation has been active in fields including education, healthcare, rural development, and environmental sustainability, guided by the philanthropic legacy of its founder, Shri Parmanand Deepchand Hinduja.