Rising Sun Energy (“RSE”), a subsidiary of Yinson Renewables, in partnership with Arpan Seva Sansthan, a non-profit organisation working on sustainable integrated development initiatives in India, has successfully implemented a transformative water sustainability project in the Bapini village of Jodhpur district, Rajasthan. This ambitious initiative, which also benefits 11 neighbouring villages, directly addresses the chronic water scarcity in the region, impacting over 15,700 residents.
The heart of the project lies in the renovation of the village pond, a crucial water harvesting structure that serves as the primary source of drinking water for these communities. The renovation significantly increased the pond’s storage capacity by 12,960 cubic meters, which is equivalent to approximately 5.2 Olympic-sized swimming pools, securing a dependable water supply throughout the year. This improvement has significantly reduced the villagers’ dependence on distant water sources and provided them with more time to engage in productive activities, such as farming.
Beyond enhancing water availability, the project focused on improving water quality—a critical issue in the region where fluoride contamination in groundwater poses significant health risks. The implementation of modern water management techniques has led to a marked decrease in waterborne diseases, thereby improving public health and reducing medical expenses for the community.
Community engagement and empowerment were central to the success of this project. RSE and Arpan Seva Sansthan organised extensive training and capacity-building programmes, forming local water management committees and educating residents on water quality testing, maintenance practices, and efficient water management. This approach has fostered a strong sense of ownership among the villagers, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the renovated water structures.
Arunav Sharma, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of RSE, highlighted the significance of the initiative, stating, “Water is a precious resource, especially in this part of Rajasthan, which is predominantly a desert. During the summer months, the situation becomes particularly precarious as local residents often had to travel long distances to access scarce clean water. Hence, through this initiative, we are redeveloping natural ponds and lakes in the area to store and retain rainwater, providing a year-round water supply for local communities. At RSE, we believe that sustainable development begins with ensuring access to basic necessities like clean water. This project is a testament to our commitment to empowering communities and fostering resilience against climate-related challenges.”
David Brunt, Chief Executive Officer of Yinson Renewables, said, “We are honoured to be a part of this project. Our commitment to safeguarding the social and environmental well-being of the communities where we operate is central to our mission. By working closely with our local teams in India and around the world—teams that deeply understand the local conditions and needs—we are able to create long-lasting social and environmental impacts that truly benefit these communities.”
The collaboration between RSE, Arpan Seva Sansthan, and the local community has not only addressed the immediate water needs of the Bapini village and surrounding areas but has also laid the groundwork for ongoing socio-economic development. The successful renovation of the pond stands as a model for holistic, community-driven approaches to sustainable development in rural India, demonstrating the profound impact of strategic partnerships in tackling critical issues like water scarcity.
This initiative also aligns with the Group’s sustainable objectives, specifically its commitment towards UN SGD 3 Good Health and Well-being, UN SDG 5 Gender Equality, UN SDG 8 Decent Work and Economic Growth, UN SDG 13 Climate Action, and UN SDG 15 Life on Land.
