Marking World Environment Day, Hinduja Foundation announced the successful completion of a comprehensive environmental restoration initiative at the State Reserve Police Force (SRPF) Group 1 Campus in Ramtekdi, Pune. Implemented in partnership with the Centre for Environmental Research and Education (CERE), the project combines rainwater harvesting, wastewater recycling, groundwater recharge, and urban afforestation to strengthen ecological sustainability across the campus.
Undertaken under the Foundation’s flagship Jal Jeevan programme with support from Hinduja Renewables Energy Private Limited and Gulf Oil Lubricants India Limited, the initiative is designed to improve water management, restore biodiversity, and build long-term environmental resilience. More than 4,000 SRPF personnel and residents are expected to benefit from the upgraded infrastructure and ecological improvements.
The project adopted an integrated approach by addressing three key areas: water conservation, wastewater treatment, and habitat restoration. Significant interventions included the construction of 13 deep recharge pits and 55 stormwater drain recharge points to improve groundwater replenishment. In addition, 250 metres of drainage channels were restored, alongside the development of water absorption trenches that enhance natural percolation.
A wastewater recycling system was established to serve approximately 330 households within the campus residential quarters. The project also rejuvenated an existing pond through the installation of a floating reed bed system, aeration mechanisms, and treated-water recirculation infrastructure, creating a sustainable model for natural water treatment and ecosystem restoration.
Afforestation formed a major component of the initiative. A total of 2,400 saplings representing 55 species were planted across the campus, including 44 native varieties selected to support local biodiversity and strengthen ecological balance. To ensure scientific monitoring, 1,266 saplings were geotagged for survival tracking and carbon assessment. The project has achieved a 100 percent plantation survival rate.
The restored landscape is already demonstrating measurable biodiversity gains. Surveys have recorded 31 bird species, 15 insect species, and nine butterfly species within the campus ecosystem, alongside several mammal and reptile species. Notable sightings include the Indian Grey Hornbill and Indian Peafowl, indicators of improving habitat quality.
Raman Kalyanakrishnan, CEO of Hinduja Foundation, said integrated environmental interventions are essential for creating climate-resilient urban ecosystems and sustainable communities. Dr. Rashneh N. Pardiwala, Founder and Director of CERE, highlighted the role of nature-based solutions in addressing urban environmental challenges while supporting surrounding agricultural communities. SRPF Group 1 Commandant Tejaswi Satpute noted that the initiative has significantly improved water management and environmental conditions across the campus.
Founded in Mumbai in 1968, Hinduja Foundation has been active across education, healthcare, water stewardship, sustainable rural development, social welfare, sports and cultural initiatives. Supported by the Hinduja Group and its companies, the foundation continues to implement social impact programmes across India and internationally.
The Hinduja Group, established in 1914, operates across automotive, financial services, healthcare, energy, IT and mobility sectors with a presence in more than 100 countries. The group continues to combine industrial growth with community-focused development initiatives through its long-standing commitment to philanthropy and nation-building.
