For the people of Palghar district, Maharashtra, access to clean drinking water was a daily struggle. During peak summers, the region’s wells dried up, forcing villagers to rely on contaminated water, increasing the risk of waterborne diseases.
How the Community Took Action
Determined to reclaim their right to clean water, over 200 people from 15 villages across Vikramgad, Dahanu, and Palghar blocks united for a common cause. With motivation and collective effort from our field team, they took charge of cleaning 15 wells—some as deep as 30 feet—using only local resources and sheer determination.
Impact: A Step Towards Water Security
With the monsoons approaching, the wells stand ready to hold fresh, life-sustaining water again. This effort is more than just physical restoration—it symbolizes self-reliance and resilience. The people of Palghar have shown that collective action can transform even the most challenging circumstances into stories of hope and renewal
- 15 deep wells cleaned, restoring access to safe drinking water
- 200+ community members actively participated in the process
- Inspiration spread to neighboring villages, igniting similar efforts
A resident shares, “Goonj made us realize the importance of cleaning our village’s wells. We now get more water from the well as the pores have been cleaned. That’s why regular cleaning is crucial to us. People from other villages are also getting inspired now to clean their wells which had been uncleaned for many years.”
Scaling Impact Through Goonj’s Cloth For Work (CFW) Model
Goonj’s CFW model continues to empower communities to take ownership of their resources—whether it’s digging wells, clearing canals, or developing sustainable water solutions. Over the past decade (2014-2024), more than 1,800 initiatives on water management have been implemented across India.
Be a Part of This Change
Our invitation to you is, start from where you are.. From a small change of starting a Goonj kee Gullak or Team 5000, joining a long and deep change process, or things in between- organising a collection drive, a volunteering journey, an internship, or simply walking with us signing for a Goonj monthly newsletter subscription.. More on www.goonj.org or write to [email protected].
Many options, but the choice is always one; Taking Action..
