Indian Army, 3one4 Capital, and HandsOnCSR Restore Bengaluru’s Polluted Lake

The Indian Army, 3one4 Capital, and HandsOnCSR by That’s Eco Foundation have successfully transformed a once-polluted aquifer in Bengaluru into the revitalised Eagle’s Nest Lake. This collaborative effort has breathed new life into the area, converting it into a thriving freshwater lake.

The Genesis of the Eagle’s Nest Project

When we first learned of the Eagle's Nest ESG Project, led by HandsOnCSR to rejuvenate the severely polluted 8-acre aquifer at the 515 Army Base Workshop in Bengaluru, we recognised an opportunity to make a lasting impact. The aquifer, once a vital source of water for the local ecosystem, had deteriorated into a polluted, neglected water body. 

The decision to support this project was driven by our core belief in the importance of environmental stewardship. The Eagle’s Nest ESG Project perfectly aligned with this ethos, offering a unique opportunity to restore an ecological asset that would benefit both the environment and the people who depend on it.

The Restoration Journey

One of the key pillars of 3one4 Capital’s approach to ESG is the power of collaboration. We understand that the challenges we face—whether environmental, social, or economic—cannot be solved in isolation. It requires collective action, bringing together the expertise, resources, and commitment of multiple stakeholders. The Eagle’s Nest ESG Project is a prime example of this collaborative approach in action.

The restoration process was meticulous and multi-faceted. It began with the removal of invasive shrubs and plants that had choked the aquifer, followed by extensive desilting operations to enhance water storage capacity. The bunds were strengthened to prevent erosion and ensure the long-term sustainability of the lake.

One of the most significant aspects of the project was its focus on biodiversity. By introducing native fish species into the newly restored lake, the project aimed to create a balanced aquatic ecosystem. The lake, aptly named Eagle’s Nest, honours the birds of prey that have long inhabited the area, even before the restoration efforts began. The initiative has revived the aquatic life, improving the ecological value of the region.

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Impact on the Environment and Community

The successful restoration of Eagle’s Nest Lake has had profound implications for both the environment and the local community. The project has significantly improved water quality and it addresses the health concerns caused by sewage contamination in the area to provide a reliable source of water for the surrounding communities.

The impact on water security cannot be overstated. The restoration has increased the lake's water retention capacity by 200%, providing a much-needed boost to the area's water resources. Additionally, the project is expected to recharge borewells within a 2-kilometre radius, potentially raising groundwater levels by up to 3 inches—a crucial development in a city grappling with water scarcity.

The environmental benefits extend beyond water security. The project included the planting of 400 native trees around the lake, which are expected to sequester approximately 10,000 kilograms of carbon annually. This reforestation effort will not only contribute to carbon capture but also enhance the local biodiversity, providing habitats for various species of flora and fauna.

Gurunandan Rao M and Harsha Tej, Trustees of HandsOnCSR by That's Eco Foundation, expressed their collective pride, stating, "This project is a testimony to what can be achieved through collective efforts. Discovering the shallow aquifer was especially exciting as it opens up new sustainable water management opportunities. What once held sewage now holds fresh water, and one can even drink from it. It’s incredible to see this vision come to reality, standing through sun and rain, and witnessing this lake come into existence through our joint endeavors."

A Model for Urban Environmental Restoration

Bengaluru, once known as the city of lakes, has witnessed a drastic decline in its water bodies due to rapid urbanisation and infrastructure development. The Eagle’s Nest ESG Project serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of restoring and preserving these natural resources. The transformation of this aquifer into a thriving lake is a testament to what can be achieved when diverse stakeholders come together with a shared vision.

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Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar highlighted the significance of the project, stating, “The revitalisation of the lake has restored a vital ecological asset and created a serene recreational space for our families. We are grateful for the support from 3one4 Capital, acknowledge their valuable contribution, and applaud the efforts of HandsOnCSR for leading this transformative project.”

Siddarth Pai, Founding Partner of 3one4 Capital, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the role of the private sector in environmental conservation. “3one4 Capital is proud to have played a pivotal role in the successful restoration of this aquifer into a lake. This project exemplifies our firm's dedication to environmental stewardship and community upliftment. The positive outcomes, including improved water quality and increased biodiversity, demonstrate the tangible benefits of public-private partnerships in addressing critical environmental challenges," he said.

3one4 Capital’s ESG Approach

The Eagle’s Nest ESG Project is more than just a successful restoration initiative—it is a blueprint for how venture capital can drive meaningful, positive change in the world.

At 3one4 Capital, our investment philosophy has always been deeply intertwined with a commitment to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles. We believe that our responsibility extends beyond the financial success of our portfolio companies to encompass the broader impact we can make on society and the environment. The Eagle’s Nest ESG Project is a shining example of how we translate this philosophy into tangible action, creating value not just for our stakeholders, but for the community and the environment at large.

View 3one4 Capital’s ESG Report 2024, which documents our commitment to implementing ESG principles across the firm’s functions, focus areas, and portfolio span. 

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