Prabhu Nagar Lake Project
Rejuvenating Prabhu Nagar Lake: A Milestone in Water Security
Introduction
The Prabhu Nagar Lake Project holds a special place in the history of Pyaas Foundation as our inaugural rejuvenation effort. Located in the Khanapur taluk, this project was born out of a critical need to move beyond temporary water tanker relief toward a sustainable, long-term solution. By reviving this one-acre water body, we aimed to restore the natural groundwater levels and provide a permanent water source for the local community and their livestock. This project serves as a proof-of-concept that dedicated citizen action can reverse decades of environmental neglect.
About
Restored in 2016, the Prabhu Nagar Lake was the first successful attempt by Pyaas Foundation to de-silt and expand an existing water body. The project was completed in a record time of 30 days, driven by the urgency of a severe regional drought.
Problem
For years, the residents of Prabhu Nagar village relied on seasonal rainfall and expensive water tankers. The local lake, which once served as the primary water source, had become completely filled with silt and debris, losing its ability to hold water. This led to a plummeting groundwater table and acute water scarcity during the summer months.
Our Solution
Pyaas Foundation mobilized heavy machinery to excavate thousands of metric tons of silt. We widened the lake’s perimeter and deepened its bed to maximize rainwater harvesting capacity. The project was funded through local donations and executed with the active participation of village elders who provided historical context on the lake’s original boundaries.
Impact / Result
- Water Capacity: Increased the storage capacity by over 400%, allowing the lake to hold water even during peak summer.
- Groundwater Recharge: Significant rise in the water levels of surrounding open wells and borewells.
- Livestock Support: Provides a reliable drinking source for over 5,000 heads of cattle in the region.