Impact of Anantkulam – Eco-Smart Village on the Surrounding
2047_Sagar Pachange
Sem 10 | Environmental Studies | Sir J. J. College of Architecture
Abstract
The concept of eco-smart villages integrates environmental sustainability, technological
advancement, and cultural preservation to create a holistic approach to rural development. This
research examines the rehabilitation of Kondhari, a small village in Maharashtra, which faces
vulnerabilities such as landslides. The eco-smart village design implemented here aims to address
these challenges by incorporating climate-resilient practices, renewable energy systems, and
advanced technologies that reduce the ecological footprint and promote sustainable living. The study
explores the socio-economic benefits, such as improved livelihoods, better access to services, and
community empowerment, while also emphasizing the preservation of local culture and traditions.
The broader impact of Kondhari’s transformation on surrounding regions is analysed, offering
insights into how eco-smart villages can serve as models for sustainable rural development,
providing a roadmap for replicating such initiatives in other vulnerable areas, and showcasing their
potential to drive positive change and resilience through a balance of modern innovation and cultural
heritage.
Introduction
Kondhari, a remote village in Maharashtra, is rich in natural resources, cultural heritage, and
agricultural practices, including rice farming and bamboo cultivation. Despite its strengths, the
village faces significant challenges, particularly frequent landslides, which have necessitated its
relocation and redevelopment. Situated near a dam that provides water and electricity, Kondhari's
unique vulnerabilities and opportunities make it an ideal candidate for adopting eco-smart village
principles. This innovative framework integrates environmental sustainability, technological
advancements, and cultural preservation to foster holistic rural development.
The transformation of Kondhari into an eco-smart village seeks to address its environmental
vulnerabilities while promoting sustainable living, enhancing socio-economic conditions, and
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preserving cultural heritage. This paper examines the multi-faceted impacts of this transition,
focusing on environmental sustainability, socio-economic growth, cultural conservation, and
technological adoption. By analysing these aspects, the study provides insights into how eco-smart
villages like Kondhari can serve as models for sustainable rural development, creating positive ripple
effects in surrounding areas and offering solutions to global sustainability challenges.
Site
The site is located in Bhor tehsil of Pune district in Maharashtra, India. It is situated 25km away from
sub-district headquarter Bhor (tehsildar office) and 90km away from district headquarter Pune. Bhor
is nearest town to Kondhari for all major economic activities, which is approximately 25km away.
The site of rehabilitation is allocated within the village itself. It is located near the Suyir Mala, which
is a one out of three vastis in Kondhari. Three plots are selected of total area 2.81 hectares as a site
for rehabilitation. Plot no. 213 (1.08 hectares), 217 (0.26 hectares), and 219 (1.47 hectares).
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Impact on Surroundings
The development of an eco-smart village in Kondhari has the potential to create transformative and
wide-ranging impacts on the surrounding areas, influencing various aspects of rural life. These
impacts can be categorized into environmental, social, economic, cultural, and technological
dimensions, which collectively contribute to holistic regional development.
1. Environmental Impact
• Conservation of Natural Resources:
Eco-smart practices such as rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and advanced
irrigation systems can significantly reduce dependency on local water bodies, including the
dam, and ensure sustainable use of natural resources. Renewable energy solutions like solar
and hydroelectric power will minimize resource depletion and energy wastage.
• Reduction in Pollution:
The adoption of eco-friendly construction materials and robust waste management systems
for both biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste will help lower pollution levels,
safeguarding air, water, and soil quality. Reduced reliance on conventional energy sources
will further mitigate environmental degradation.
• Biodiversity Preservation:
Initiatives like afforestation with native plant species and organic farming methods will
enhance local biodiversity, ensuring a balanced ecosystem. Restoring natural habitats for
flora and fauna will also increase resilience to ecological disturbances.
• Climate Resilience:
By employing energy-efficient technologies, green building techniques, and low-carbon
infrastructure, the eco-smart village will reduce its overall carbon footprint. These measures
will not only combat climate change but also protect the region from extreme weather events
like floods and droughts.
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2. Social Impact
• Improved Living Standards:
Upgraded infrastructure, including access to clean water, modern sanitation, sustainable
housing, and renewable energy, will elevate the overall quality of life for residents. These
enhancements will foster healthier, more dignified living conditions.
• Community Empowerment:
Encouraging participatory governance models will empower villagers to take ownership of
the development process, fostering a sense of community responsibility and collaboration.
This can lead to more equitable decision-making and stronger societal bonds.
• Skill Development:
Training programs in organic farming, bamboo processing, renewable energy systems, and
waste management will equip residents with the skills needed for sustainable livelihoods,
making them active contributors to the eco-smart initiative.
• Healthcare and Education:
Integrated healthcare and education systems, blending traditional practices with modern
solutions, will improve access to medical care and enhance learning opportunities. Digital
infrastructure will further enable remote education and telemedicine services, benefiting not
just Kondhari but nearby villages as well.
3. Economic Impact
• Agriculture and Bamboo Cultivation:
Modern irrigation techniques and organic farming will increase crop productivity and
profitability for farmers. Bamboo, a significant local resource, can be utilized for value-added
products such as furniture, handicrafts, and construction materials, opening new markets and
generating additional income streams.
• Employment Opportunities:
The eco-smart village project will create jobs in construction, renewable energy systems,
waste management, eco-tourism, and local industries, reducing out-migration and supporting
economic stability.
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• Sustainable Tourism:
Kondhari’s cultural heritage, including its temple and traditional crafts, combined with eco-
smart features, can attract eco-tourists, bringing additional revenue to the region. This
tourism model will prioritize environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
• Circular Economy:
By recycling and reusing resources, Kondhari can reduce dependency on external materials
and create a self-sustaining local economy. Waste-to-energy initiatives and composting
systems will add economic value while addressing environmental challenges.
4. Cultural Impact
• Preservation of Heritage:
Restoring the village deity temple as a cultural and spiritual hub will help preserve traditions
and foster a sense of pride among residents. Festivals and rituals centered around the temple
will serve as occasions for community bonding and cultural expression.
• Promotion of Local Crafts:
Community centers showcasing bamboo crafts, traditional weaving, and local art forms will
encourage cultural exchanges, boost local artisans' visibility, and ensure the survival of these
practices for future generations.
• Community Bonding:
The integration of traditional rituals, cultural festivals, and communal activities within the
eco-smart framework will reinforce social ties and create a cohesive, united community.
5. Technological Impact
• Renewable Energy Usage:
Leveraging solar and hydroelectric energy systems will make Kondhari self-reliant in power
generation, reducing dependency on conventional sources and ensuring a steady energy
supply for both residential and agricultural needs.
• Smart Infrastructure:
IoT-enabled systems for monitoring water usage, energy consumption, and waste
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management will optimize resource utilization and increase operational efficiency. These
technologies will also provide real-time data for informed decision-making.
• Digital Inclusion:
High-speed internet connectivity and access to smart devices will bridge the digital divide,
enabling online education, e-governance, telemedicine, and access to broader markets for
local products.
• Waste Management Innovations:
The introduction of smart sorting and recycling units will ensure efficient waste processing,
turning waste into valuable resources like compost and energy while keeping the environment
clean.
6. Impact on Nearby Villages
• Knowledge Spillover:
Surrounding villages can learn from Kondhari’s success and adopt similar sustainable
practices, creating a ripple effect of positive change in the region.
• Shared Resources:
Kondhari’s renewable energy infrastructure, advanced waste management systems, and
digital connectivity can be extended to support nearby settlements, fostering regional
collaboration.
• Collaborative Networks:
Joint initiatives in markets, tourism, and cultural festivals will strengthen ties between
villages, promoting mutual growth and shared prosperity.
Conclusion
The transformation of Kondhari into an eco-smart village has demonstrated significant impacts
across environmental, socio-economic, cultural, and technological dimensions. By integrating
traditional knowledge with modern practices, the village has become a model for sustainable rural
development in India.
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Through renewable energy adoption, resource conservation, and eco-friendly practices, Kondhari has
reduced its ecological footprint and enhanced climate resilience. Improved infrastructure,
employment opportunities, and skill development programs have elevated living standards, while
cultural preservation initiatives have strengthened community pride and attracted tourism.
The project’s success underscores the potential for scaling such initiatives to create a network of eco -
smart villages, fostering regional development and addressing global sustainability goals. Kondhari’s
journey exemplifies how rural communities can achieve self-reliance, resilience, and prosperity by
harmonizing tradition and innovation.
