When water turned from a resource to a recurring threat
On the banks of the Subarnarekha River, near the coast of Odisha, lies Kulachada village in Baliapal block of Baleswar district. The community here depends on farming and fishing to make a living. But over the years, nature turned against them.
Every high tide brought flood-like conditions. Seawater rushed into the river channel and overflowed into the fields and homes, while at low tide the water struggled to drain out. For 15 years, the village canal — once a vital drainage route had remained choked with wild bushes, creepers, and silt.
The stagnant water destroyed crops, eroded soil, and pushed families toward distress migration. With each flood, their hope for normalcy receded a little further.
Cleaning the canal, clearing the way for change
When the Goonj team visited Kulachada, they listened to the villagers’ concerns and helped organize a community meeting. The people decided to act together.
Under Goonj’s Cloth for Work initiative, villagers came forward, dedicating intense collective efforts. They cleared the canal, restoring its original width.
As the last shovel of silt was lifted, the first flow of clean, free-moving water returned bringing relief and pride to every participant.
Villagers cleaning canal in Kulachada under Goonj’s Cloth for Work
Beyond the canal: reviving livelihoods and dignity
Today, when the tide rises, water drains back into the sea within 2–3 hours. The once-flooded farmlands are now safe, fertile, and ready for cultivation again.
The impact has gone beyond Kulachada — nearby villages have taken inspiration and are planning similar efforts. What began as a small canal-cleaning activity has become a movement of self-reliance, resilience, and restoration.
This is not a story of aid received; it’s a story of people reclaiming their right to live with dignity, one canal at a time.
Restored canal in Kulachada allowing smooth water flow
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..
