Jodhpur priest revitalizes five ponds over a decade

Pandit Jeevraj Shrimali has dedicated the past decade to revitalizing five neglected ponds in Jodhpur, India. His commitment to cleaning these water bodies has led to the removal of over five tonnes of waste, including flowers, idols, and plastic materials that had turned the ponds into dumping grounds. Shrimali's efforts also include planting more than 350 trees around these sites, contributing to environmental conservation and raising community awareness about the importance of clean water sources. The transformation of Guruo Ka Talab and the other ponds began when Shrimali observed alarming levels of pollution in 2016. Recognizing the significance of these water bodies in a region where every drop of water is precious, he initiated a campaign to change community habits regarding waste disposal. By engaging with visitors to the ponds, he educated them on the importance of keeping waste out of the water and collaborated with the Jodhpur Municipal Corporation to implement cleaning drives and introduce separate waste bins.

To further protect the ponds, Shrimali took legal action by filing a public interest litigation in the Rajasthan High Court in 2018. This petition addressed the issues of idol immersion and various forms of waste being dumped into the ponds. The court responded by ensuring that measures were taken to clean the ponds and prevent further pollution. Shrimali's proactive approach has been crucial in not only cleaning the ponds but also in establishing a framework for ongoing protection against pollution. Over the years, his efforts have expanded beyond cleaning to include waste segregation and recycling initiatives. For instance, biodegradable materials like flowers are handled separately, while cloth and other non-biodegradable items are sent for reuse or recycling. Additionally, immersion tanks have been created beside the ponds to facilitate idol immersion without contaminating the water bodies.

This innovative strategy reflects Shrimali's understanding that maintaining clean water sources requires a multifaceted approach, including community participation and awareness. In recognition of his environmental conservation work, he received the Veer Durgadas Rathore Samman in August 2026. His ongoing commitment to cleaning and protecting Jodhpur's water bodies highlights the role of citizen-led initiatives in preserving natural resources. As he continues to advocate for responsible waste disposal and community involvement, Shrimali’s work serves as a model for similar efforts across India, emphasizing that the sustainability of water sources relies on collective responsibility and action.