Landmark water revival project brings ecological, cultural, and community transformation to Patan district.

Siddhpur, Patan – On 17 September 2025, coinciding with the 75th birthday of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the newly developed Matrushri Hiraba Sarovar at Matrugaya Tirth, Siddhpur.

Dignitaries gather at the unveiling of the Matrushri Hiraba Sarovar plaque, celebrating the project’s inauguration in Siddhpur.

Once a dry and neglected river stretch, this section of the Saraswati River has been revived within a year, transforming barren lands into a beautiful, thriving waterbody. This initiative was made possible through a strategic partnership between the Gujarat Government and Dholakia Foundation, breathing new life into Siddhpur’s ecology, heritage, and livelihoods.

Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel and Padma Shri Savji Dholakia walk along the newly developed riverfront during the inauguration of Matrushri Hiraba Sarovar at Saraswati River, Siddhpur.

A Transformative Revival for Siddhpur

The Saraswati River holds deep cultural and spiritual importance for Siddhpur, yet much of it has remained dry for years. Last year, in March, Dholakia Foundation, in collaboration with the Gujarat Government, undertook a comprehensive rejuvenation project: excavating the riverbed, restoring water flow channels, constructing ghats, and creating a scenic, accessible riverfront.

Reviving Ecology and Livelihoods

The Matrushri Hiraba Sarovar is designed to:

• Store over 45 million cubic feet of water
• Benefit nearly 150 hectares of farmland
• Recharge 20+ nearby wells
• Prevent waterlogging and soil erosion downstream of Madhupavdiya Check Dam

By combining ecological restoration with heritage revival, the project strengthens local agriculture, groundwater security, and cultural identity.

Leadership and Collaboration

Under the guidance of Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel, the project balanced ecological restoration, community needs, and heritage conservation. The inauguration of Matrushri Hiraba Sarovar was attended by senior state officials, including Shri Balwant Singh Rajput, Shri Kuwarji Bawaliya, local leaders, and Padma Shri Savji Dholakia, who together highlighted the collective effort that turned this ambitious vision into reality.

Together, these leaders reaffirmed the importance of public-private partnerships in driving large-scale environmental change. Their combined efforts ensured that the project was completed in record time while maintaining high standards of quality, sustainability, and cultural sensitivity,  setting a new benchmark for future water conservation initiatives across Gujarat.

Dignitaries and officials on stage during the inauguration ceremony of Matrushri Hiraba Sarovar at Saraswati River in Siddhpur, marking a historic step in water conservation and community revival.

A Day of Celebration for the Community

The inauguration was met with overwhelming enthusiasm by Siddhpur residents. Families and cultural groups gathered along the newly constructed ghats to witness the historic moment. Community participation was integral to the project’s success, with residents actively contributing to landscaping efforts and planning discussions. This inclusive approach ensured that the rejuvenated Sarovar truly belonged to the people of Siddhpur.

Gujarat Minister Shri Balwant Singh Rajput warmly greets Padma Shri Savji Dholakia during the inauguration. 

Impact and Future Vision

It is expected that the Matrushri Hiraba Sarovar will enhance biodiversity, strengthen local agriculture, and offer a calm public area for social meetings and cultural activities. Additionally, it creates new opportunities for spiritual travel, heritage walks, and ecotourism, boosting Siddhpur’s economy and conserving its heritage.

This project serves as a template for upcoming river and waterbody revitalization projects in Gujarat and elsewhere, showing how community involvement, philanthropy, and government leadership can all work together to produce long-lasting change quickly.

About Dholakia Foundation:

Dholakia Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Hari Krishna Exports Pvt. Ltd. It works for sustainable change in various sectors, including education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and community development. The Foundation’s #Mission100Sarovar, Mission 100x, and 10 Million Trees by 2030 (102030) Mission initiatives accomplished over 3.6 million Trees grown and 164 lakes developed across Gujarat and India, addressing water scarcity while adhering to the UN-defined Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Principle.