Vandana Pandey

LA4004

Badkhal Lake, once a jewel of nature nestled in Badkhal village near Faridabad, Haryana, has sadly undergone a profound transformation. Located approximately 32 kilometers from Delhi, this lake was once a bustling tourist destination, offering a range of activities from boating and swimming to horse and camel rides. However, the lake’s decline began in 2008-2009 when it started gradually drying up, and today, it lies completely dry, with only a fraction of its original volume around 20-30% remaining. This transformation has been exacerbated by extensive mining in the area, leaving the ecosystem vulnerable. Despite its desolate condition, Badkhal Lake remains an essential resource for the local community, providing water for domestic purposes and serving as a site for public activities. Recognizing the urgent need for intervention, the proposed project aims to reimagine Badkhal Lake as a thriving biodiversity hotspot through adaptive reuse and strategic restoration efforts. At the heart of the project is the preservation of the remaining wet areas of the lake bed, which offer favorable conditions for biodiversity enhancement with good soil quality, rapid runoff, high percolation rates, and ample sunlight exposure, these areas present an ideal opportunity for ecological rejuvenation. Establishing a biodiversity hotspot around these preserved wetlands will attract visitors, generate revenue, and promote environmental preservation. Through educational programs, recreational activities, and sustainable tourism initiatives, It seeks to foster a sense of ownership and stewardship among residents and visitors. In addition to ecological restoration, the project envisions the revitalization of the surrounding area by leveraging the natural beauty of the Aravalli Hills and incorporating indigenous plant species for the ultimate aim of creating a unique destination that celebrates both nature and culture