Restored Stepwells Bring New Life to Communities

Quick Smiles:

• Ancient stepwells are being restored to provide clean water in India.
• The Environmentalist Foundation of India has revived hundreds of water sources.
• Stepwells now support both local heritage and modern water needs.

Across India, historic stepwells are finding new purpose as vital water sources thanks to dedicated restoration efforts. The Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI), led by Arun Krishnamurthy, has been instrumental in bringing more than 600 water bodies back to health.

Recently, their work included reviving stepwells, architectural marvels that have served communities for generations. These intricate structures, known for their design and engineering, are now being cleared of waste and silt to serve local water needs once again.

“Stepwell restoration is the next big implementation challenge that I would like to add to EFI’s responsibilities because we have a greater responsibility now on protecting these historical assets, which are a testament to human intelligence,” Arun Krishnamurthy tells CNN.

The restoration of the Moosi Rani Sagar in Alwar required teamwork, traditional skills, and community support. Once filled with debris, the stepwell now helps provide clean water and stands as an inspiring tourist attraction.

Vikramjit Singh Rooprai, a heritage advocate, describes a similar transformation at the Purana Qila Baoli in Delhi.

“It was one of the deeper stepwells of Delhi. After restoration, the Purana Qila Baoli has so much water that the entire lawns of the [Old Fort in Delhi] are being irrigated by it.”

India’s many stepwells, once neglected, are regaining their former glory, blending ancient wisdom with modern needs. Communities benefit from renewed water security and a deeper connection to their cultural heritage.

The movement to restore stepwells continues to inspire hope and encourages support for grassroots environmental efforts.

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