Watershed restoration
Restoration of Degraded Watersheds
Odisha’s Ganjam-Chilika region, historically reliant on seasonal rainfall and groundwater for agriculture, is facing a critical threat from climate change. Unpredictable rainfall, declining groundwater levels, and soil degradation are endangering food and water security in the area. In response, the ECRICC Project has launched a large-scale watershed restoration initiative aimed at reviving ecosystems, securing water sources, and improving rural livelihoods.
A Landscape-Scale Intervention
Covering 300 hectares and following the ridge-to-valley approach, this initiative focuses on restoring natural water pathways and reducing siltation into the Chilika Lagoon—a critical biodiversity hotspot and livelihood source for local communities. By combining traditional knowledge with scientific methods, the project is fostering resilient landscapes that will benefit generations to come.
Key Restoration Interventions
Loose Boulder Check Dams (LBCDs)
Strategically placed across natural drainage lines, LBCDs slow water runoff, minimize soil erosion, and reduce sedimentation into the Chilika Lagoon, protecting aquatic life and fisheries.
Check Dams & Water Harvesting Structures (WHS)
These structures capture and store rainwater, creating a reliable water source for irrigation and livestock even during dry periods, helping mitigate the impact of droughts.
Sunken Pits & Earthen Bunds
These low-cost, eco-friendly interventions improve groundwater recharge and enhance soil moisture retention, making agriculture more resilient.
Urban Plantations
Greening peri-urban and urban areas contributes to groundwater recharge and creates microclimates, improving local ecological balance.
Benefits at a Glance
Enhanced Water Security
Improved rainwater harvesting ensures year-round water availability for farming and domestic needs.
Increased Cropping Intensity
With access to water in multiple seasons, farmers can cultivate more than one crop annually, boosting agricultural productivity and income.
Groundwater Recharge
Restoring underground water reserves builds long-term sustainability in agriculture.
Ecological Restoration
Reduced runoff and erosion help conserve biodiversity and maintain the Chilika Lagoon’s ecological integrity.
Community Participation
Local materials and community involvement in construction and maintenance foster ownership and sustainability.
More Evolution Projects
System of Rice Intensification
The System of Rice Intensification (SRI) is a rice farming method that aims to increase rice productivity...
Read More
Salt Marsh Protection
The Salt Marsh Protection Initiative is a key action under the GCF-GoI supported ECRICC Project in Odisha...
Read More
Mangroove Restoration
India’s eastern coastline is home to significant mangrove forests, which play a crucial role in coastal protection.
Read More
Crab Farming in Odisha
Enhancing Climate Resilience of India’s Coastal Communities" (ECRICC) project, initiated in 2019, aims to safeguard vulnerable coastal populations...
Read More