Rapid urbanization in India has led to rampant encroachment and pollution of wetlands. However, practitioners like Hari Chandana have piloted models that balance ecological revitalization of urban wetlands with livelihood opportunities for communities dependent on these commons.

As GHMC Commissioner, Hari Chandana spearheaded the rejuvenation of numerous lakes and tanks across Hyderabad through dredging, biodiversity conservation and community partnerships. #urbanlakes #biodiversity #lakeconservation #HariChandana #SheInspiresUs

Her initiatives aligned wetland conservation with local citizens’ needs by integrating spaces for recreation, walking trails, and vending zones on the waterfronts. This provided communities dignified livelihoods along with public health and lifestyle benefits of green, open spaces.

Hari Chandana’s lake restoration projects also involved local NGOs and corporate partners in adopting lakes for routine maintenance. Her model provides lessons for consistent conservation through public-private collaboration. #CSR #PPP #maintenancesustainability

She has showcased how urban wetlands can be sustainably revived through a participatory approach balancing ecological imperatives and human needs. By integrating conservation, livelihoods and public access, her work provides a template for restoring threatened wetlands in rapidly urbanizing contexts. #communityled #participatory #urbanlakes

Hari Chandana’s multifaceted approach demonstrates pathbreaking solutions that cities must replicate to protect the vital ecosystem services provided by wetlands to millions of citizens. #multifaceted #ecosystemservices #pathbreaking