Indian Oil has signed an MoU with Shri Chaitanya Health and Care Trust (SCHCT) to restore five historically significant water bodies in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh
In a notable step towards environmental preservation and cultural heritage conservation, Indian Oil has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shri Chaitanya Health and Care Trust (SCHCT) to restore five historically significant water bodies in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. The initiative forms part of Indian Oil’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments and highlights the company’s dedication to sustainable development.
The MoU signing ceremony took place at Indian Oil’s Marketing Head Office in Mumbai, attended by V Satish Kumar, Director (Marketing) of Indian Oil and Gauranga Das, Member of the Governing Body of ISKCON and a noted environmentalist.
Focus on Reviving Historic and Spiritual Landmarks
The initiative targets the eco-rejuvenation of Prem Sarovar, Vivhal Kund, Pawan Sarovar, Jal Vihar Kund, and Krishna Kund — water bodies located in the culturally rich towns of Barsana, Nandgaon, and Vrindavan. These sites, revered for their historical and spiritual significance, have suffered environmental degradation due to pollution and inadequate management.
Kumar emphasized the vital role of water bodies in supporting biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. “We aim to rejuvenate these iconic landmarks, preserving India’s natural and cultural heritage while enhancing biodiversity,” he said.
Das, an advocate of sustainable practices, lauded the collaboration. He highlighted the potential of the project to boost spiritual tourism, which constitutes 70 percent of India’s tourism. “Rejuvenating these water bodies will create pristine, garbage-free ecosystems, benefiting local communities and fostering sustainable tourism,” he remarked.
Comprehensive Eco-Rejuvenation Measures
The selected water bodies, identified by the Central Pollution Control Board as heavily polluted, exhibit high levels of chemical oxygen demand, biological oxygen demand, and dissolved solids. The eco-rejuvenation will focus on:
– Controlling nutrient input from surrounding catchments.
– Removing and degrading existing nutrients within the water.
SCHCT, with its proven expertise in water conservation—including the successful restoration of Priya Kund in Mathura—will oversee the management and maintenance of the water bodies for the first year. Subsequently, the Uttar Pradesh Braj Teerth Vikas Parishad, Mathura, will take over the maintenance responsibilities.
Indian Oil plans to monitor the progress of the project closely and conduct an independent impact assessment a year after completion to ensure its success.
Broader Implications
This initiative not only underscores Indian Oil’s commitment to environmental stewardship but also aligns with efforts to preserve India’s spiritual and cultural landmarks. By combining ecological restoration with tourism enhancement, the project has the potential to deliver far-reaching benefits for the local community and the environment.
Article Credit: psuwatch