Allcargo Group enhances livelihoods of 4000+ people in Maharashtra

Allcargo Group, Indian-born global logistics conglomerate, has successfully completed a rainwater harvesting, storage and ground water recharge project at Sawangi Tehsil in Nagpur to address water scarcity in that area, thus boosting agricultural activities and rural economy. The initiative is a part of Allcargo Group’s CSR arm Avashya Foundation, to drive holistic transformation of the region’s agricultural landscape by increasing access to water in the water-starved areas in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra.

Under the Sawangi Canal Project implemented in collaboration with Sadbhavana Gramin Vikas Sanstha and Purti Sinchan Samruddhi Kalyankari Sanstha, the 4.11 km ridge-to-valley length of the Canal was widened and deepened to enhance irrigation, improve groundwater levels and support farmers, livestock and wildlife. Following the Tamaswada pattern of water conservation, the project focussed on desilting and restoration of the Canal to ensure optimal water storage and prevention of soil erosion.

Sawangi Canal Project created 100,000 Cubic Mt. of surface water storage and contributed 225,000 Cubic Mt.  ground water annually. The project enriched 400 hectares of agricultural land, benefited 200 families by providing drinking water, water for cattle and protective Irrigation for Kharif, Rabi crops and vegetables. Overall, the project will support agricultural and other activities of over 1200 farmers and indirectly support over 3000 farmers and their family members.

Commenting on the initiative, Shashi Kiran Shetty, Founder and Chairman, Allcargo Group said, “We are pleased to play a part in addressing the water scarcity in Vidarbha region and flourishing the rural economy. Restoring water sources along with strengthening groundwater reserves will revive rivers, wetlands, and forests. A steady access to water not only revitalizes rural ecosystems but also fuels economic growth—enabling commercial agriculture, enhancing livestock farming, supporting small-scale industries and encouraging reverse migration. The project will also build resilience among people to withstand the dry spells caused by climate change.  I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Nitin Gadkariji, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India for his invaluable support and guidance. Allcargo Group continues to work towards bringing in transformative change in the region and engaging with the rural communities to uplift and empower them.”

Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Government of India, stated, “It is truly heartening to see that the Allcargo Group’s Sawangi Canal project is benefiting numerous farmers. Vidarbha needs more such initiatives to help prevent farmer suicides. Allcargo Group’s noble efforts of life saving and livelihood supporting are commendable. I appreciate its role in uplifting the lives of farmers and extend best wishes for the project’s continued success and lasting impact in the years ahead.”

In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), Allcargo Group is committed to community development and environmental protection. A part of its sustainability targets, Allcargo Group aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.