Page 37 - CRISIL ESG Report 2023

From water scarcity to hope
How CRISIL and the local communities united to make Jambrung water accessible
In the vibrant village of Jambrung, nestled in Raigad district just 90 km away from the bustling metropolis of Mumbai, a tale of resilience unfolds. With a population of 1,500, they face a daunting water shortage from January to June. Despite the beautiful Ulhas river flowing nearby, it runs dry, leaving the villagers longing for relief. Even the bountiful rains of the Konkan region from June to September slip away, untapped and wasted. This forces the villagers to rely on expensive water tankers, burdening their pockets.
Moreover, their agricultural endeavours, from cultivating water-intensive paddy crops in the Kharif season to nurturing Lima beans in other seasons, further amplify their demand for water.
Recognising the gravity of the situation, the local government authorities embarked on a mission to address the water crisis plaguing these households, some of whom have resided in the village for centuries. Last year, in an inspiring collaboration, CRISIL Foundation and its NGO partner erected a check dam to impede the escape of precious rainwater.
The result? A lifeline for the village, ensuring access to water even in the dry month of April. This dam not only replenished the groundwater, revitalising the village’s weary borewells, but also provided a vital buffer, extending the water supply for an additional two months until the long-awaited rains arrived.
Recently, a dynamic group of CRISILites, accompanied by enthusiastic villagers, descended upon the check dam site to prepare the dam for the impending rainy season, meticulously cleaning and fortifying it with stones. This collaborative effort between the CRISILites and the villagers epitomised unwavering determination and teamwork, achieving remarkable progress in a short span of time.
Let us not overlook the remarkable hospitality bestowed upon our team by the villagers. Their warmth and generosity added an extra layer of fulfilment to this memorable experience. As we forge ahead, we remain committed to transforming communities, one village at a time.
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