| Work Detail |
Alstom, a global leader in sustainable mobility, has partnered with United Way Bangalore (UWBe), a leading non-profit organization, to rejuvenate the Bidare Agrahara Lake in Doddabanahalli Village, Bengaluru East. This initiative aims to address the severe water scarcity in Bengaluru and aligns with the larger Wake the Lake plan, targeting Sustainable Development Goal 6.
The comprehensive restoration project has increased the lakes water retention capacity to 18 crore litres, significantly improving the groundwater level and reviving the Dakshina Pinakini River. The project involved removing 25,800 cubic meters of silt and 8,300 cubic meters of mud from the lake, greatly enhancing water quality and capacity.
Bengaluru, known as the city of lakes and the capital of Karnataka, has faced a severe water crisis in recent years due to rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change. The citys dependence on depleting groundwater resources and the deteriorating quality of water bodies due to pollution and encroachment exacerbates the crisis. Alstom’s initiative represents its commitment to promoting positive social and ecological impacts, environmental sustainability, and social development.
Olivier Loison, Managing Director of Alstom India, commented on the projects success: "At Alstom, we are committed to creating a positive impact on the communities in which we operate. Our commitment to sustainable practices extends beyond our industry to the wider communities we serve. The Bidare Agrahara Lake restoration project, with its improved water quality and green cover, has the potential to become a small biodiversity hub in the future, supporting the Wake the Lake initiative. Alstom aims to create a lasting impact by strengthening the local community and contributing to a sustainable world for future generations."
Alstom and UWBe have implemented various activities to enhance the lakes ecological and social value. These include removing hyacinth, desilting, strengthening the lakes main embankment, constructing an entrance culvert, restoring the waste weir, creating sedimentation ponds, and fencing the lake to protect its boundaries.
To promote biodiversity, an island for roosting birds was created in the center of the water body, and various native tree species were planted using traditional, intensive, and Miyawaki methods. Community amenities such as walking paths, benches, an outdoor gym for adults, and playgrounds for children have been established to enhance the recreational area for greater community participation.
Alstom is actively supporting the transition to sustainable transport systems that are inclusive, environmentally friendly, safe, and efficient, while implementing a socially responsible business model. Alstom India has participated in numerous community outreach programs across the country in close collaboration with local and international NGOs known for successfully implementing ground-level initiatives. |
