The Challenge – Living Without Water, Hoping for a Way
In Kudasingi village, nestled in the hilly terrain of Chintapalle Mandal in Andhra Pradesh, the Kond community had long faced the challenge of water scarcity. Every drop had to be fetched from distant mountains, requiring hours of laborious walking—time that could have otherwise gone into education, farming, or rest. For generations, agriculture remained a distant dream.
Collective Resolve – From Vision to Action
When the idea of community-driven development reached Kudasingi through Goonj’s Cloth for Work (CFW) initiative, it sparked a quiet transformation. Rather than offering aid, Goonj facilitated a dialogue—encouraging the community to decide their own priorities. The need for water was clear.
Community-led canal digging in Kudasingi
Villagers came together to manually dig a canal—from the mountain source to the village—without any machinery. Tasks were divided, shifts were set, and men and women worked side by side. They toiled through tough soil and dense foliage with only basic tools—and an unwavering will.
A Flowing Breakthrough – Water Returns to Kudasingi
After days of collective effort, the breakthrough moment came. Water began to flow into the village. What once seemed impossible was now real—fresh, flowing water reached homes, fields, and futures. Joy ran deep, and the transformation had only just begun.
From Survival to Sustainability – Coffee, Confidence & Change
The flowing water brought new possibilities. Kudasingi’s cool climate made it ideal for coffee cultivation. Families began sowing seeds of hope—literally. Over time, coffee plantations flourished, bringing green cover, stable income, and a pathway to better health, education, and infrastructure.
More than the economic benefits, the canal project deepened trust among villagers. It proved that community-led efforts could overcome the most persistent challenges.
A Story That Travels – Inspiring Beyond Borders
The success of Kudasingi spread across nearby communities, sparking similar initiatives. The younger generation now walks paths paved with possibility—not just to water, but to learning, innovation, and dignity.
Water flowing through newly dug canal in Kudasingi
What began as a project for water became a journey of self-reliance, resilience, and pride. Kudasingi is no longer known for scarcity—it is remembered for unity, initiative, and the will to transform.
Be a Part of 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..
