AMM Foundation’s Project NANNEER revitalises Three Water Bodies in Haliyal, Strengthening Water Security for Rural Communities
AMM Foundation, through its flagship water stewardship initiative Project NANNEER, has successfully rejuvenated three critical water bodies in Haliyal Taluk, Karnataka, strengthening water security and supporting sustainable livelihoods for local communities. The initiative covers Kumbarekare Lake in Thergaon village, Alloli Pond and Hanumantha Pond in Haliyal village, with a focus on improving groundwater recharge, increasing water availability during summer months, and enhancing irrigation potential.
Despite receiving over 1,500 mm of annual rainfall during the southwest monsoon, Haliyal Taluk faces challenges in retaining water due to limited percolation, leading to runoff and seasonal water scarcity. Project NANNEER addresses this challenge by restoring and deepening community water bodies that play a pivotal role in sustaining rural livelihoods.
At the heart of the initiative is Kumbarekare Lake, a 54.5-acre water body that serves as a vital recharge source for Thergaon village. The rejuvenation effort has increased the lake’s water-holding capacity from 352,002 cubic metres to 655,452 cubic metres, benefiting approximately 243 families. The restoration supports groundwater recharge, improves irrigation availability, strengthens lake bunds through systematic desilting, and mitigates flooding and water stagnation during heavy monsoon spells.
The project has also transformed Alloli Pond and Hanumantha Pond, increasing their storage capacities from 27,280 to 87,296 cubic metres and 10,115 to 24,276 cubic metres, respectively. Together, these interventions are expected to benefit over 370 families across the region by improving access to water for agriculture and daily needs.
The restoration of these local water assets demonstrates the critical role that small and community-centric water bodies play in ensuring long-term water resilience. Beyond increasing storage capacity, the initiative contributes to groundwater replenishment, supports agricultural productivity, and strengthens climate resilience in rural Karnataka.
Muthu Murugappan, CEO EID Parry India Ltd and Chair, Project NANNEER, said: “Water security begins at the community level. Through Project NANNEER, we are restoring critical local water bodies that directly impact the daily lives and livelihoods of rural communities. The rejuvenation of Kumbarekare Lake, Alloli Pond, and Hanumantha Pond reflects our commitment to creating sustainable water solutions that enhance groundwater availability, support agriculture, and strengthen resilience for future generations. We are grateful to AMM Foundation for leading this initiative, to Chola and Coromandel for their active support of Project NANNEER, and to EID Parry for its implementation support.”
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