Water Leadership from Institutions

As groundwater levels plunge and urban flooding worsens, a rainwater harvesting initiative across police stations shows how local institutions can turn seasonal chaos into lasting water security

- ANIL SWARUP

This initiative proves that environmental leadership does not require expensive infrastructure

Navjyoti Foundation was one of the proud recipients of the Nexus of Good Annual Awards 2025, which were presented on November 16 at a glittering function at PHDCCI, New Delhi, by BK Chaturvedi, former Cabinet Secretary of the Government of India. The model that this Foundation has evolved is a wonderful example of Nexus of Good. It can be replicated nationwide through a public-private partnership.

In Haryana, rain often means chaos. Every downpour at a police station would bring flooded compounds, overflowing drains, and days of inconvenience for police personnel and the public alike. This story was not unique to one location; it echoed across the state, especially in Gurugram, Faridabad and Sonipat. Police stations, essential public institutions where people come seeking help, were facing a serious challenge.

Ironically, while the earth was drying up below, waterlogging was worsening above. According to the Central Groundwater Board, the groundwater situation in these districts had reached alarming levels, with extraction ranging between 104 per cent and 212 per cent. Rapid urbanisation, over-extraction, and changing rainfall patterns had left the land parched and unstable. The same rain that failed to percolate into the soil was pooling in compounds, roads, and open spaces. The crisis was twofold: groundwater depletion and urban flooding.

To address this growing challenge, Navjyoti India Foundation, founded in 1988 by Dr Kiran Bedi and 15 like:

minded police officers, took an innovative step under the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s “Catch the Rain Where It Falls” campaign. Launched in November 2022, the initiative set out with a clear mission: to turn rainwater from a recurring problem into a lasting resource.