In remote corners of the Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, where dry earth and scarce water had long dictated the rhythm of life, a surprising scene began to unfold. Children swam and splashed joyfully in the newly revived ponds, and elders sat on the banks, marvelling at the shimmering water that was once a distant memory.

For years, villagers in Kalyandurgam and Rayadurgam hadn’t seen a single drop of water in areas that were once dumpsites. In March-April, 2024, they were transformed into natural oases. The reappearance of water bodies in both towns marked the start of a new chapter — one in which memories of drought began to fade, replaced by visions of prosperity.

This moment was the result of an ambitious project launched by IFS officer Vineet Kumar, who, alongside wildlife conservationist and wife Rupak Yadav, spearheaded the ‘Ananta Niru Sanrakshanam’ project. The project aimed at reviving and creating water bodies as a lifeline for the community.

Navigating low rainfall, flash floods, and economic instability

“Known for its drought-prone conditions, the district’s annual rainfall hung precariously low at around 500 mm, just above the arid regions of Western Rajasthan. The district historically receives minimal rainfall due to its geographical position in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats and its distance from the coast,” Vineet says.

“The erratic nature of rainfall, exacerbated by climate change, poses a significant challenge. Flash floods often occur within a couple of days, leaving the region dry for the remainder of the year. This........

© The Better India