Pune: The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Lake in Bhugaon (Mulshi Taluka) underwent significant desilting, removing 35,000 tons of silt.

This initiative was supported by Naam Foundation and philanthropists, providing machinery such as poclains, JCBs, and Hyva trucks. The desilting operation, which lasted two months, is expected to increase the water storage capacity by 40 million liters, alleviating water scarcity for Bhugaon and Bhukum residents.

The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Lake, situated on the border of Bhugaon and Bhukum, had reduced water storage capacity due to silt accumulation. Rapid urbanization led to severe water shortages for the villagers and farmers in these areas.

In response, social worker Anil Karanjavane, entrepreneur Mauli Satpute, Atul Ingwale, Deepak Chonde, Vitthal Chonde, and Kunal Ghare coordinated the desilting plan, with support from Naam Foundation. Over the past two months, two poclains have been continuously removing silt.

Initially, construction businessman Sushant Jadhav provided a third poclain for 25 days, enabling the removal of silt using three poclain, one JCB, and nine Hyva trucks. Currently, two poclain, one JCB, and four Hyva trucks are in operation, resulting in the removal of 35,000 tons of silt over two months.

The villagers received financial and material support from philanthropists and construction professionals, including Songbird, Mont Vert Belair, Mont Vert Belbrook, Four Seasons, and Sumit Realty, as well as apartment owners.

Former Deputy Sarpanch Akshay Satpute, Ramesh Sanas, Ravi Pandit, Mangal Phalke, Dashrath Shedege, Jeevan Kamble, Sunil Chonde, Hanumant Chonde, Jayant Phadke, Umesh Gavade, Bhau Pawar, Rishi Thampi, Varda Bodse, Niranjan Lagvankar, Rishikesh Mahajan, Mauli Maral, Anil Ghube, Vishal Muluk, Abhijit Dixit, Alok Puranik, and Jyoti Mahajan contributed generously.

"Faith in one's work leads to divine assistance, as experienced during this desilting project. Monetary concerns often overshadow pure intentions, but with the support of philanthropists, this project succeeded," said Anil Karanjavane, a social worker.

"Support from colleagues was crucial for the desilting effort. The community generously supports good work, and Naam Foundation played a significant role. Contributions from construction professionals, apartment owners, and local philanthropists were instrumental in completing this project," remarked Mauli Satpute, a hotelier.