ICICI Foundation, the CSR wing of ICICI Bank, has launched a major project in Bihar to revive traditional water systems, addressing the region’s pressing water scarcity issues. In Gaya district, the foundation has restored ancient water harvesting systems known as ahars and pynes, enhancing irrigation and providing clean drinking water to combat diseases like cholera and typhoid. This initiative, which also extends to Danapur Cantonment in Patna, has benefitted around 250,000 residents by ensuring access to safe water.
These traditional water structures, designed to collect and channel floodwater, had been rendered ineffective due to silt buildup over the years, worsening groundwater depletion. In 2024, ICICI Foundation rejuvenated three ahars in Belaganj and one in Barachatti, increasing the storage capacity by 56.73 million liters and enabling irrigation for 5,250 acres. This has empowered 2,100 farmers to cultivate multiple crops, significantly mitigating drought-related hardships.
Gaya stands to benefit considerably as the enhanced irrigation and water supply support agricultural productivity. With a more reliable water source, local farmers in Gaya can diversify crops, boosting the agricultural economy and ensuring stability in local food supply chains.
ICICI Foundation’s efforts extend beyond irrigation. In Bihar’s Valmiki Tiger Reserve, the foundation collaborates with forest departments to conserve biodiversity, part of a broader program across 53 forests in 19 states that benefits over 20,000 people. By integrating water conservation with ecological preservation, ICICI Foundation is helping transform water-scarce regions in Bihar and fostering sustainable livelihoods.
