The lake’s revival reflects the power of collective efforts involving civic bodies, private enterprise and public participation
HDB Financial Services (HDBFS), a leading non-banking financial company, partnered with the Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI) and Indore Municipal Corporation (IMC) to scientifically restore the famous Tigaria Badshah Lake in Indore.
After the restoration, the lake's water capacity increased by a remarkable 21 percent, and it can now hold up to 4.3 lakh cubic metres of water. Furthermore, the restored lake is expected to serve as a perennial water source for the inhabitants of the immediate area.
Rapid urbanisation often leads to the loss of water bodies, gradually depleting vital water resources. It is essential to have a water-positive attitude in such circumstances. To achieve this goal, HDBFS and EFI have taken a step forward by restoring Tigaria Badshah Lake, which spans 44 acres.
The restoration process required dedicated and collective efforts from the local community, designated authorities, and the restoration partner. HDBFS is proud to have played a part in restoring the lake and is committed to building a sustainable and inclusive future.
The mission was to restore and safeguard the environment, one water body at a time. Through a partnership with HDBFS and the Indore Municipal Corporation, it was possible to revitalise Tigaria Badshah Lake, showcasing the profound impact of collective endeavours in advancing environmental sustainability.
In 2023, the lake was transformed by removing invasive weeds, especially the thorny Prosopis juliflora—the next step involved desilting and repositioning soil to increase the lake's water-holding capacity. The lake's periphery was fortified with double and single-line bunds, extending 368 and 794 metres, to make it more resilient to the test of time. Upstream farmlands were levelled, and the storage zone was retained to ensure a smooth flow and optimal storage.
To enhance the local biodiversity, fifteen nesting islands were introduced on the lakebed, providing a home for birds, reptiles, and insects. The lake's ecological balance was improved by developing water conservation structures such as percolation pits and trenches. This remarkable journey of environmental restoration reflects the efforts made to restore the lake.
HDBFS, as part of its CSR mandate, has supported the restoration of nearly 100 small and medium-sized ponds and lakes in rural and urban areas of Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.