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Following the impact of Cyclone Dana in October 2024, SEEDS emergency response was initiated in select districts of both the affected States - West Bengal and Odisha. In the five years that I have been at SEEDS, I have often heard of colleagues hitting the ground running - following a disaster. At the end of 2024, an opportunity presented itself for me to accompany one such team to West Bengal.

In kilometres, the Sagar Island, on the continental shelf of the Bay of Bengal is a mere 100 kms away from the capital of West Bengal - Kolkata. In Delhi you can cover 100 kms in say a maximum of two hours. As I left Delhi for Kolkata, colleagues prepared me for the seven-hour journey Sundarbans that can be completed only with a change of multiple modes of transport! Trying to get to places such as Sagar Island which was my first destination, we first had to reach Naamkhana. This is followed by a change to a To-To (e-rickshaws) and finally you board a Launch boat – popularly called a Launcher.

While traveling from Kolkata in a car, the journey stretched over three hours due to traffic and pothole-ridden roads. I began wondering about my final destination as I had only seen ‘Sundarbans’ on the map and heard colleagues talk about it. For the night we stopped at Naamkhana, Sundarbans, some 60 kms from Kolkata. That night I saw the efforts of the field team. Planning for the relief distribution scheduled the next morning, they were matching the list of affected people and making tokens to smoothen the process. They literally worked against time to get things done. Planning and packing complete at 2 am, the team were up and ready to leave the next morning at 7 am! From Naamkhana we took a 20-minute Toto ride to the jetty to board the Launcher – this is a basic boat that ferries people to and fro. For us, of course all of this had to be done while transporting 104 kits - a mix of shelter and hygiene relief material!

As I sat on the top deck of the Launcher - I gradually begun to understand the tenacity of communities living here. I knew very little about the Sagar Islands, in the Sundarbans. I got to know that people worship the water on which their livelihoods are dependent on. As I spoke to people, I also understood that this very source that fuels the basics of life also forced them out of their land. Strangely, I felt that their normal life was one of resilience. As the Launcher picked up the gentle lulling pace of the journey with its muddy coloured tides breaking at the mangrove cover on the shores my anxiety levels peaked. As the only one wearing a life jacket, I remained firmly on my seat – in the middle of the boat. As we left the tides behind, the water became clear. Finally, the Launcher was in the middle of the delta, giving a 360-degree view of the vast expense of water and with people on the boat now hushed into a silence. This brought me calm and I marvelled at the manner in which people on the boat were adept in walking around the boat.

It also made me wonder about this Delta, where the salinity of the river tells you when it becomes the part of the sea, how the tidal waves break away freely and makes one wonder if there is any place to walk! Soon we could see land and the launcher captain shouted ‘Sagar’ – much to my relief. The planned two-hour journey had by now became three due to incoming high tides.

Relieved to be on ground we got down and headed straight towards the Panchayat Hall where banners, tables and chairs were already set. Even as it seemed that a crowd had gathered in the open hall anxiously waiting for us, not a single person present was without their token and identify proof. Soon I could hear and see the SEEDS team members in action. On the top of their voices, they were calling out the names of the people, one after another. Then Amalan who was tasked to hand out the kits to people whose documents have been verified swung into action. In a while, people were picking kits, some on their shoulder and some loading them on the Totos. The smiles on their faces were indicative of the value of the goods to get their lives back on track. That was the end of the first day.

The next day standing at the top of the bund in Mousuni - another island in the Sundarbans, I could feel the breeze and stare at the sea. Waves kept coming to the shore, sweeping the sand, only to be pulled back in. Ghayasuddin, a local volunteer then pointed out to the open area behind with fields, homes, and people around, explaining to us how deep the waves came inwards during Cyclone Dana. Around four feet of the area was submerged, including the bund I was standing on!

For communities here, their daily life includes being aware of the waters and what it might bring up. Any clue to an upcoming incident triggers evacuation of their homes, leaving behind the island. From the materials that they received the previous day signs of use were already there. The tarpaulin that came in the kit was used to fix a home or used as a much-needed extension. While some used it as a cover for their grains, some as a place to dry the fish – an important source of income as well as integral to local cuisine. Patia, Lahra, and Tapra dry fish are widely available in Sagar Island. These traditional sun-dried fish varieties are rich in flavour and highly sought after for their distinct taste.

At their homes we heard their stories from the recent Cyclone Dana. Showing us damaged homes, Pratima Haldar a Santhali tribal woman who lives in Mousini and volunteered during the emergency took us near the embankment, the last house there was her home. Around 200 metres from the embankment where she stays by herself, the roof of her home was damaged during Dana. She smiles as she points to the now fixed roof of her home. Having collected and observed the process of relief distribution, I was now ready to head back home. Sunny Gehlot, Rajesh Kumar, Jayonta Da, Rehana and Amalan were my dependable co travellers this time.

I travelled back to Kolkata, eager to get back on the flight home, to Delhi, the city that is home to me. Now these islands and their resilient people stay with me. Each time I hear about Sundarbans or see the map, I will always feel the deep connect that I made with the people I met as well as the places I visited.

Digital and IT Manager SEEDS

Kits loaded on Launcher for distribution at Sagar

Tarpaulin used as roof extension and as a grain cover by the community at their houses

Photo Credit: Arvind Sharma

It’s with great pride that I look back at my journey at SEEDS. Interestingly, my first interactions with the co-founders Manu Gupta and Anshu Sharma, was once or twice a year as part of the auditing firm I worked with. I witnessed how two young environmentally conscious and passionate people mapped a path to what they wanted to do. Today they have built a SEEDS team - which is equally committed.

When SEEDS responded to the Bhuj earthquake in 2001, the co-founders requested me to visit the field too. They wanted to ensure better team coordination and understanding of the innovative work that was being planned and implemented there. As the community in Patanka gradually warmed up to picking up the rehabilitation work themselves – after a lot of convincing and cajoling due to local dynamics and the lack of trust following the devastation- I experienced SEEDS’ in action - especially the innovations they were initiating on the ground. I also saw how our initiative on the ground was later the cornerstone for the State School Safety Programme, that included training of trainers for teachers.

Building trust with communities, listening to what they thought would work in their communities, sharing options for rehabilitation, building their capacities to be part of the rehabilitation process – these have been the founding stones for SEEDS. The work was always so unique and innovative that gradually appreciation from important stakeholders especially the Government began to come by. For me, my world opened up to working directly with a whole variety of people.

By 2005 I was working full time at SEEDS. Another field exposure was during the rehabilitation work following the 2004 Tsunami. Once out in the field – where often there was nothing - I learnt about the reality of ground situations. Working with the team on the field, I realised the futility of some of my demands from Delhi. I realised that with the desire to serve, the teams were sometimes stretching themselves beyond the call of duty, their limited budgets and tight timelines yet honouring commitments. With such challenging situations now so clear to me, I made the effort to understand and balance both sides of emergency response and budgeting by reworking the best we could.

SEEDS believes in working behind the scenes – centre staging instead all the community efforts. From Bhuj, to the Andamans, to Leh, Barmer, Poonch and our work in Pulwama over the years, everywhere that SEEDS has intervened, we have tried our best to ensure that we leave the communities with much more than we initially envisaged. Which is probably why if there is an untoward incident – very rarely though- its community that takes it upon themselves to control the situation as we experienced in conflict zones like Poonch and Pulwama.

During an emergency, rehabilitation in the higher reaches of the Himalayas is often carried out under crushing deadlines. Our work in Pulwama following the flash floods comes to mind simply because of the extremely tight schedule. Two hundred transition shelters had to be built in two months - before the first snowfall in the region. The senior team from Delhi divided time and remained on ground with the community until the task was completed. We all remember this as a do or die situation both for the community as well as the SEEDS team. When the timber supply chains broke down during this critical work, support came in from the National Disaster Management Authority and the Army ensuring that the communities SEEDS was supporting received the timber to complete their shelters on time. Every time our work has been technically sound it has gained recognition from Governments and sometimes the media too.

Overlooking our own comfort – especially the search for vegetarian food – is always deeply overcompensated by communities. I recall the SEEDS emergency teams being out the whole day. Very often community would volunteer to first find a place for them to assemble and keep their things and then a makeshift workspace. Often this meant, that an affected community that already had compromised their comfort by sacrificing a much needed room for us during the day. They would also double up as mobilisers to help us solve challenges small and big.

It’s also with deep gratitude to donor organisations that the team has skilled itself to manage funds. Our nimble management of funds during a phase of immense organisational growth helped our teams deliver at all levels. Strengthening systems on ground have gradually helped us respond to two emergencies at a time – thereby increasing SEEDS reach during these crucial times. Adhering to policies and being compliant have sustained the team and prepared us for the future.

Today SEEDS teams continue to come together to do the heavy lift during India’s now increasing emergency season. Teams then peel back to their wide variety of projects specialising now on disaster risk reduction, nature-based solution options, sustainable environments and aligning technology during emergencies. Initiative, innovation and commitment to people and environment are the stuff that SEEDERS are made up of!

As I reflect on past learnings and look ahead to SEEDS' future, my hope is that the seeds we have sown together—with communities, partners, and donors alike—along the path we’ve walked, will help grow into a resilient and sustainable future. A future that will stand strong in the face of increasing challenges from disasters and climate change.

Director Finance Planning & Controller SEEDS

Photos Credit : Gitartha Das

The soft, resonant chants from the gompas of Leh drift through the crisp mountain air, filling the vast landscape with a sense of spiritual presence. The monks’ prayers rise in perfect harmony, like an ancient hymn binding earth to sky. As the sacred mantras echo through the valleys, they invite all who hear them to pause, reflect, and find peace. In the stillness of the mountains, these chants become a living prayer—a bridge between the physical and the divine, guiding the soul toward serenity and understanding.

Nestled in this harsh yet beautiful land, the Changpa tribe of the Changthang Plateau depend on their Changra goats for the prized Pashmina wool that sustains their livelihoods. Yet, the region’s extreme winters, coupled with the effects of climate change, shifting rainfall and snowfall patterns, land-use changes, overgrazing, wildlife stress, and geopolitical tensions, have led to increasing pasture insecurity. During the winter months, livestock face severe scarcity of grazing land, causing mortality rates to rise. This threatens not only the survival of their herds but also the economic fabric of the Changpa tribe and the broader Pashmina wool industry.

A recent trip to Leh aimed to refine possible interventions of a project designed to reduce livestock mortality and improve the health of the Changpa tribe. Initially focused on addressing the immediate risks posed by harsh winter conditions, the discussions shifted to mitigating livestock losses, with a secondary goal of enhancing community health.

Secondary research and discussions with local partners underscored the urgency of prioritising the first objective—protecting the animals during the most vulnerable months.

Anticipatory action will be urgently required once two key environmental signals present themselves: the onset of Chillai Kalan (December 21), marking the arrival of severe winter, and snowfall exceeding two inches, which further stresses livestock. At these triggers manifest themselves, interventions such as feed, fodder, nutritional supplements, and insulation materials to protect the animals from the biting cold will be urgently required.

Preparations need to be made well in advance, to enable swift and effective responses once the triggers are activated. Stakeholders have emphasised livestock are particularly vulnerable during the lean season. They placed greater emphasis on providing additional feed, fodder, insulation, and insurance during these critical months, ensuring a more comprehensive and sustained support system for both livestock and the community.

The trip to Leh has been instrumental in building collaborations with local stakeholders and understanding the on-the-ground realities. Through ongoing evaluation and collaboration, we aim to leverage efforts to protect the health of the Changpa people and safeguard the future of their livestock. The challenges posed by Leh’s winters are formidable, but with a thoughtful and adaptable strategy, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of this resilient community.

A step towards sustainability

Soil erosion is a major concern globally, and it can be caused by natural agents such as water, wind, and glaciers. However, anthropogenic activities like excessive tilling, mining, deforestation, overgrazing, and the use of chemical fertilisers also contribute significantly to soil erosion. Soil is the thin veneer that covers the Earth’s surface. It is formed over millions of years through a process of weathering, transportation and deposition from pre-existing rocks soil forms.

Since 2020 SEEDS has been working in the Sundarbans in West Bengal combating the growing problem of coastal soil erosion due to seasonal cyclones. By building the capacity of communities, in three villages of South 24 Parganas, Patharpratima, Kultali and Gosaba, efforts are on to build buffers to storms which are helping conserve soil as well. This work is critical considering that the Food and Agriculture-led Global Soil Partnership, estimates that approximately 75 billion tonnes of soil is lost every year, which affects ecosystems, agriculture, and the environment. This loss can lead to decreased crop yields, loss of biodiversity, and harm to the economy. It is, therefore, crucial to address soil erosion and find ways to conserve the soil.

Topsoil, which is the richest and most fertile part of the soil is home to a variety of microorganisms, organic matter, and plants, making it vital for plant growth. Plants rely on the minerals and nutrients in the topsoil for their survival, while soil depends on plants to stay intact, as roots bind the soil together. The relationship between plants and soil is essential. If plants die, the soil becomes loose and prone to erosion. If the soil erodes, plants cannot survive, creating a cycle that can impact food production for all living beings.

In Sundarbans, after areas most at risk of erosion were identified, regular soil and water testing was carried out to understand their chemical and biochemical properties. This helped in taking informed decisions about how to protect the soil. A nature-based solution to combat coastal soil erosion was the plantation of mangroves and vetiver grasses that bind the soil together and prevent its erosion. By training community, learning from their existing traditional wisdom and monitoring the ongoing work the survival of these important mangroves has been ensured. With the saplings growing in strength, they hold on to soil even through strong storms.

Planting mangroves and vetiver grass, minimises soil erosion and the land becomes more stable. These plants not only help in soil conservation but also provide numerous benefits to the local community, including a regular source of income. Mangrove forests provide homes for various species, increasing biodiversity and creating tourism opportunities.

The strong roots of mangrove trees also create a natural barrier against the waves, preventing soil erosion caused by water. These trees form a protective cage that helps hold the soil in place. Known for its sturdy roots, vetiver grass helps bind the soil together and prevents erosion. The grass spreads quickly and covers large areas in a short time. It also absorbs harmful chemicals and heavy metals from the water, making the environment cleaner. Moreover, vetiver is valuable to the local community as it can be used for making ropes, baskets, and other handicrafts, as well as producing juices and essential oils.

Apart from plantation, measures have also been taken by the community to cage and bind the soil with the help of eco-friendly techniques. One of these techniques is binding the soil with nets designed with the help of jute.

Soil conservation is not just about protecting the land, it is more about sustaining life. By taking steps to prevent soil erosion, we can protect ecosystems, ensure food security, and create a better future for generations to come. The efforts in the Sundarbans, with the planting of mangroves and vetiver grass, serve as an excellent example of how we can use nature to protect nature. We should understand the importance of soil conservation and take action to safeguard this vital resource. After all, a healthy soil means a healthier planet!

Content Writer - Programmes

Ahead of mangrove plantation, women prepare the ground in the Sundarbans.

Women in the Sundarbans have been trained to plant and take care of mangrove saplings.

Amid the verdant hills and winding rivers of Tripura, nestled atop a tortoise-shaped hill, stands the revered Tripura Sundari Temple. Known locally as ‘Matabari’, this sacred shrine in Udaipur is a major Shakti Peetha, a site where, according to legend, a part of the goddess Sati’s foot fell. Pilgrims from far and wide come to witness the divine power and beauty of Tripura Sundari, who embodies compassion, strength, and resilience - the same resilience her people have shown in the face of nature's fury and adversity.

In recent months, unyielding rains poured in Tripura, submerging villages, triggering landslides, and isolating communities. Roads were flooded, homes submerged, and the Gomati River swelled as if in protest. The incessant rains and the swollen river were no match for people and livestock. Amidst the chaos though, people clung to their faith, gathering at the temple to seek solace and strength from the goddess. In their prayers, they carried a collective hope, drawing from the enduring spirit of Tripura Sundari as they faced the daunting task of rebuilding their lives.

The recent floods in Tripura have underscored the devastating effects of climate change, intensified by factors such as deforestation, altered land use, and inadequate flood infrastructure. Experts describe the floods as a “classic example” of climate-driven calamities, with over 32 fatalities and approximately 1.7 million people affected. Villages that once thrived were reduced to remnants as homes and livelihoods were swept away, leaving countless families grappling with loss, displacement, and uncertainty.

Despite these overwhelming hardships, the communities of Tripura continue to find strength in the goddess they revere. Much like the indomitable power of Tripura Sundari, they have found ways to persevere. Supported by the START Network, aid and support reached remote and hard-hit areas, allowing communities to begin the process of rebuilding.

The response efforts were built on compassion, empathy, and the desire to provide meaningful support. For those who lost their homes and were displaced, shelter kits, hygiene essentials, and clean drinking water were provided. Recognising the toll on both physical and mental well-being, counseling services were extended to vulnerable groups, particularly women, addressing not only immediate physical needs but also mental health.

One critical intervention was the restoration of handpumps, which serve as vital water sources for these communities. Women were trained to carefully clean and chlorinate the wells thus restoring access to safe drinking water, turning once-contaminated sources into symbols of hope and renewal. This practical solution not only met the community’s immediate need for clean water but also conveyed a powerful message: they were not alone; someone cared, and help was here.

In Jolaibari, where 127 families sought refuge in a makeshift shelter amidst overcrowded and unsanitary conditions regular health and hygiene sessions helped women learn vital practices like handwashing, menstrual hygiene, and water sanitation. These women, initially unfamiliar with these hygiene practices, embraced them, sharing their newfound knowledge with others in a powerful display of community resilience.

In times of adversity, the people of Tripura have shown that resilience is more than survival; it is a collective pursuit of dignity, unity, and hope. Much like the temple of Tripura Sundari itself, the people have become symbols of beauty, strength, and power. Complaint Response Mechanism (CRM) Committees have been formed with local leaders to ensure that all receive the support they need, exemplifying community-led solutions and active participation from every stakeholder.

This year, Agartala’s Durga Puja celebrations held a special significance. As the city pulsed with the beat of dhak drums, colourful lights, and joyous crowds, there was a palpable sense of unity. People dressed in their finest gathered not only to honour the goddess but to draw courage from her, celebrating the triumph of good over evil while simultaneously overcoming their own hardships. This year’s Puja was more than a celebration—it was a reminder of the resilience rooted in the spirit of Tripura Sundari and reflected in her people.

Senior Director- Impacts and Inclusion

As I touched down in Chennai on October 15, 2024, my thoughts were on getting to the beach. After a day spent attending a conference, I had envisioned unwinding by the ocean, enjoying the cool breeze, and dipping my toes in the water. As fate would have it - the weather had different plans that day.

The journey started early that morning when I, along with SEEDS' Director of Programme, Parag Talankar, boarded a flight from New Delhi for a one-day conference at Chennai. The turbulence during the flight foreshadowed what awaited us on the ground. When we landed, the drizzle greeted us - a light, almost refreshing sign of nature. Yet beneath it - the signs were ominous.

Soon, the weather escalated. The conference, originally planned to end at 5:30 pm was rushed to a close by 2:00 pm - due to an impending storm. The urgency in the air mirrored the growing sense of unease. An orange alert had been issued, signalling heavy rainfall, with a red alert looming for the following day. Chennai was on the brink of a potential disaster, and we found ourselves in the middle of it.

Despite the chaos outside, the conference felt like a bubble. Reality hit the moment we stepped out. Driving through streets flooded with water. It was overwhelming – there was water everywhere, drains overflowing. The city seemed to be drowning. What struck me most was the resilience of the people. Chennai did not come to a standstill; instead, it adapted. People navigated the floodwaters with scooters and bikes, finding their way through, while pedestrians waded alongside stranded cars. It was as if the city had accepted these extreme conditions as part of its rhythm.

I couldn't help but draw parallels to other cities like Gurugram and Bengaluru, which also suffer from flooding during heavy rains. However, unlike those cities, people in Chennai pressed on, undeterred. While these cities grapple with urban flooding, the underlying causes are eerily similar—rapid urbanisation leading to the loss of natural water bodies and wetlands, which previously absorbed excess rainwater. Over 80% of Chennai’s land is now under construction, worsening the flooding with every storm.

At one point, our cab driver stopped to refuel his CNG vehicle. As I stepped out, my shoes were quickly submerged in the murky waters, a wave of rainwater splashing over my trousers, possibly due to the vibrations in the still water by the passing vehicles. At that moment, I realised the beach I had hoped to visit - had come to me.

This encounter made me reflect on the work SEEDS does to mitigate such disasters. As an organisation, SEEDS focuses on building resilience in communities vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and disasters. In urban centres like Gurugram and Bengaluru, our efforts include reviving critical water bodies like Wazirabad Lake, Jharsa Pond (both in Gurugram) and the Huvinayakanahalli Lake in Bengaluru —natural buffers that help manage waterlogging during heavy rains.

Our work doesn't stop there. In the Sundarbans, West Bengal for example, we are actively restoring mangrove forests. These mangroves not only shield coastal communities from cyclones and floods but also function as natural carbon sinks, combating climate change at its core. SEEDS’ approach is holistic—we understand that disasters don't occur in isolation. They are exacerbated by environmental degradation, climate change, and unplanned urbanisation.

Chennai's flooding is not an isolated event. It’s a clear message that climate change is no longer a distant problem affecting far-off lands —it's hitting us right where we are. It’s real, immediate, and tangible, reshaping our cities and daily lives. The floods across India serve as a reminder that we can no longer afford to view climate change as someone else's crisis.

This stark reality brought home the importance of not just disaster response but also long-term preparedness and environmental conservation. Our work across India, from urban water bodies to coastal mangroves, aims to build that resilience—helping communities withstand the shocks of a changing climate, and more importantly, thrive in its aftermath.

In the end, it wasn't the beach I had imagined, but the experience deepened my resolve. At SEEDS, we are committed to making sure communities, whether in cities or the Sundarbans, are ready to face the uncertain future, with nature as both a guide and a partner in resilience.

Technical Proposal Manager, SEEDS

Photo Credit: Mitali Vavre

The devastating floods in Tripura have laid bare the state’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, with experts attributing this latest disaster to a combination of human-induced climate change and inadequate planning. The floods, which have claimed 32 lives and displaced over 1,49,000 people, are being described as the worst the state has experienced since 1956, resulting in an estimated loss of ₹15,000 crore.

What Triggered the Floods?

A record-breaking 288.8 mm of rainfall was recorded in a single day on August 20, triggering the collapse of already fragile river systems and causing widespread destruction. The districts of South Tripura, Khowai, West Tripura, and Gomati were hit hardest, with South Tripura bearing the brunt of the catastrophe. The intense rainfall led to rivers like Howrah/Haora, Dhalai, Muhuri, Manu, and Khowai breaching their banks. The Manu river in Kailashahar, for instance, surged past the critical level of 23.05 meters, causing alarm among local communities and the administration. This was not an isolated incident; numerous rivers across the state overflowed simultaneously, resulting in floods in dozens of villages, cutting off access to entire communities and triggering landslides in several areas.

Understanding the Scale of the Impact

The most severely affected areas include Bagafa and Belonia in South Tripura, and Amarpur in the Gomati district. Bagafa recorded an astounding 375.8 mm of rainfall, while Belonia received 324.4 mm, and Amarpur 307.1 mm, inundating low-lying regions and destroying homes and agricultural land. Landslides triggered by the relentless rainfall have already claimed seven lives, and the state’s administration is still searching for two individuals who remain missing. The disaster, which began unfolding on August 18, has escalated into a full-fledged humanitarian crisis. Over 38,000 families have been displaced and are now sheltered in 821 relief camps scattered across the state. The relentless downpour and subsequent flooding have not only resulted in loss of life and property but have also dealt a heavy blow to the livelihoods of thousands of families who are now struggling to recover from the devastation.

The Role of Climate Change and Human Activities

Rising global temperatures have altered monsoon patterns, resulting in more unpredictable and intense rainfall. This, combined with heavy rainfall in a short period, led to the severe flooding experienced this year. But climate change isn’t the only reason for the disaster. Human activities like deforestation, building in flood-prone areas, and poor planning have also played a major role. Rivers that used to have space to spread out during heavy rains are now more narrow due to construction. Wetlands that used to absorb excess water have been lost due to encroachment, leaving communities more exposed to flooding.

Moreover, there’s a lack of proper flood management in Tripura. The state doesn’t have enough drainage systems or embankments along its major rivers. Without these, it’s much harder to control flooding. Delays in flood prevention projects and a lack of preparedness have made the situation even worse. The floods in Tripura show how climate change and human impact can combine to create a disaster. It’s crucial that the state adopts better planning and climate resilience measures to protect its people from future floods.

Moving Forward: The Need for Climate Resilience

The catastrophic floods in Tripura are a wake-up call for the state’s administration and policymakers. Building climate resilience must become a priority to safeguard communities from future disasters. This includes restoring degraded wetlands, creating comprehensive flood management plans, and implementing sustainable infrastructure projects that consider the region’s unique topography and hydrology. Additionally, early warning systems, improved disaster preparedness, and community engagement are crucial in reducing the impact of such extreme weather events. The floods in Tripura are not just a natural disaster; they are a consequence of human actions that have disrupted the delicate balance of nature. As the state grapples with the aftermath, it is imperative to recognize the urgent need for sustainable development practices that can mitigate the impact of climate change and protect the lives and livelihoods of millions.

Conclusion

The recent floods in Tripura highlight the urgent need for a multi-pronged approach to disaster management that addresses both climate change and human impact. It’s essential for the state to invest in sustainable infrastructure, restore natural buffers like wetlands, and implement comprehensive flood management plans. By taking proactive steps now, Tripura can build resilience and better protect its communities from future climate-related disasters.

Sources

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/natural-disasters/tripuras-floods-classic-example-of-climate-change-intensifying-extreme-weather-events-experts

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tripura/central-team-assessing-damages-caused-by-floods-in-tripura/article68582058.ece

https://reliefweb.int/report/india/tripura-floods-and-landslides-joint-rapid-needs-assessment-september-2024

My first encounter with Hauz-i-Shamsi was during a heritage walk through Delhi in 2011, a journey meant to uncover the layers of history embedded in Mehrauli. Each monument we visited had a tale etched into its stones, a story that whispered through time. Hauz-i-Shamsi, at first glance, seemed like a typical urban waterbody, unremarkable save for a small pavilion at its edge. Yet, as our guide began to unravel its past, I realised how deceptive appearances can be.

The story goes back to the reign of Shamsuddin Iltutmish, a ruler of Delhi. It’s said that he dreamt of the Prophet, who, mounted on a horse, struck the ground with its hoof and commanded the king to build a reservoir on that very spot. The next day, Iltutmish and his advisors visited the site, and to their amazement, they found the imprint of the horse's hoof exactly where it had appeared in the dream. A tank was soon excavated, and the pavilion that still stands today marks the sacred site of this miraculous event. The reservoir, now a serene yet neglected waterbody, was once a hub of religious significance, where the local community gathered for celebrations and rituals.

My next encounter with Hauz-i-Shamsi was far removed from the mystique of ancient legends. It was in the structured setting of a meeting room at SEEDS where the agenda was the rejuvenation of this historic reservoir. Here, the discussions were more technical, focusing not just on the reservoir's historical and religious importance but on the sophisticated water carriage system that once fed it. This system, an engineering marvel of its time, transported water from distant sources to ensure the reservoir’s levels and purity. Unfortunately, as modern Delhi grew and the demand for housing increased, this ingenious system was disrupted. Buildings sprang up, suffocating the reservoir and leaving behind a stagnant pool—a shadow of its former self.

This decline is a familiar story for many of Delhi's urban waterbodies. These reservoirs, once central to life in the city, have been sidelined as piped water became the norm. As we lost our connection to these water sources, we also lost the community spirit that had once maintained them. Encroachments and a lack of awareness about their environmental value have turned these lifelines into afterthoughts, threatening their very existence.

At SEEDS, there’s a deep understanding of the critical role waterbodies like Hauz-i-Shamsi play in urban ecosystems. They regulate the microclimate, recharge groundwater, act as rainwater sinks, and support biodiversity. Ignoring them has had catastrophic consequences, as seen in the flooding that has plagued several Indian cities. Yet, there’s hope.

With support from generous donors, SEEDS is spearheading efforts to restore Hauz-i-Shamsi using nature-based solutions—approaches that work with, rather than against, natural processes. This initiative also aims to revive the park surrounding the reservoir, transforming it into a space where residents can reconnect with this historical and environmental treasure.

Walking through the algae-choked reservoir during the early stages of the project in 2023 was undoubtedly disheartening. The challenges of navigating bureaucratic clearances seemed daunting at first, but as the permissions were secured and the local community began to engage with the restoration efforts, obstacles began to melt away. There was a collective sense that this reservoir, with its rich past, could once again become a focal point for the community.

"Restoring Hauz-i-Shamsi is more than just an act of preservation; it’s a step towards rekindling our relationship with the environment. By breathing new life into this ancient waterbody, SEEDS hopes to inspire a broader movement towards environmental stewardship, especially as we face the challenges of a rapidly warming planet. Delhi's monuments are more than just relics of the past—they are lessons in innovation, resilience, and the harmonious coexistence of human and natural systems. It’s up to us to ensure these lessons are not lost to the relentless march of urbanisation."

Director, Built Environment