Mannikeri Lake Project
Mannikeri Lake Rejuvenation: Securing Water for Rural Livelihoods
Introduction
The Mannikeri Lake Project is a cornerstone of Pyaas Foundation’s rural intervention strategy. Situated in a region heavily dependent on agriculture, the lake had suffered from decades of siltation, reducing its capacity to a fraction of its potential. Our team recognized that the survival of the local farming community depended on the health of this water body. By applying scientific de-silting and embankment reinforcement, we have transformed Mannikeri Lake into a perennial reservoir that supports not just the water table, but the very economic fabric of the surrounding villages.
About
Located in the Belagavi taluka, the Mannikeri project involved large-scale excavation and soil management. The project was executed with a focus on maximizing rainwater catchment and ensuring the structural longevity of the lake’s perimeter.
Problem
The primary challenge at Mannikeri was “dead storage.” The lake bed was so thick with silt that even heavy monsoons resulted in minimal water retention. This led to a critical shortage for livestock and caused local borewells to run dry by early February each year.
Our Solution
We utilized heavy Earth-moving machinery to remove thousands of cubic meters of silt. This nutrient-rich soil was offered to local farmers to enhance their land, creating a circular economy of benefits. We also cleared the natural feeder channels that bring rainwater from the surrounding hills into the lake, ensuring efficient filling.
Impact / Result
- Extended Availability: The lake now retains water well into the summer months.
- Livestock Lifeline: Provides a consistent drinking source for over 3,000 cattle.
- Groundwater Recharge: Significant improvement in the yields of nearby agricultural wells.