Dera Ismail Khan: Restoration efforts have commenced at Badri Pond in Burzawali Village, a significant step in the Recharge Pakistan project to enhance water security and climate resilience for local communities. The project aims to restore key seasonal freshwater systems, emphasizing nature-based solutions to address climate challenges.

According to The Coca-Cola Foundation, the restoration marks a milestone for the USD 72.9 million Recharge Pakistan initiative, which is being implemented by WWF-Pakistan in collaboration with various governmental and environmental organizations. The project seeks to improve groundwater recharge and reduce flood and drought risks across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, and Balochistan.

Badri Pond, a crucial seasonal freshwater source, has suffered from reduced capacity due to sediment accumulation and eroded embankments over the years. The restoration project will focus on increasing its water-holding capacity, benefitting approximately 2,957 households. Carlos Pagoaga, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, highlighted the importance of collaboration and long-term investment in building watershed resilience.

The interventions at Badri Pond, expected to be completed by 2026, are part of broader efforts to demonstrate how nature-based solutions can complement conventional infrastructure in reducing disaster risks and building resilience in climate-vulnerable areas.