Mumbai, December 10, 2025: Raintree Foundation has introduced solar-powered Water ATMs across nine villages in Rajgad Taluka (formerly Velhe), significantly improving access to clean and affordable drinking water for local communities long dependent on contaminated wells and hand pumps. The initiative addresses persistent water quality challenges and unreliable electricity supply that previously disrupted water treatment systems in the region.
The Foundation had earlier installed 10 ultrafiltration units of 1,000 LPH capacity to purify river water. However, frequent power outages during summer and monsoon seasons hindered continuous operation. The new solar-powered Water ATMs offer a decentralised, renewable-energy-based solution that ensures uninterrupted drinking water access. Villagers can now withdraw purified water using a smart card at a nominal cost of ₹5 for 20 litres.
Residents report not only improved water quality but also reduced reliance on private tankers during peak summer months, leading to greater financial stability and predictable water availability.
Shantabai Gaikwad, a resident of Sakhar village, said: “Earlier, we had no choice but to drink from wells or ponds, and children often fell sick. Now, with the solar water ATM, we get clean water in minutes — it has made a real difference in our daily lives.”
Impact Across Rajgad Taluka
The Foundation has solarised and installed Water ATMs in all nine villages where it operates—Sakhar, Gunjavane, Awali, Dadawdi, Phansi, Chirmodi, Ghavar, Lavhi and Mervane. More than 4,000 residents across these villages now have regular access to safe drinking water.
The model integrates clean energy with community water security, presenting a scalable approach for rural regions dealing with water contamination and energy shortages.
Leena Dandekar, Founder of Raintree Foundation, said: “Our approach is simple — sustainability must translate into better health, dignity, and resilience for people. Solarising Water ATMs has shown that clean energy solutions can directly strengthen community well-being.”
A Scalable Rural Water Solution
The Solar Water ATM initiative forms part of the Foundation’s broader mission to build climate-resilient villages through clean energy, community engagement and environmental stewardship. By combining renewable power with local water systems, the project demonstrates a model that can be replicated across rural India, where unreliable electricity and poor water quality remain ongoing challenges.
With early community feedback highlighting improved health outcomes and reduced seasonal distress, the Foundation’s initiative underscores the potential of decentralised, technology-driven interventions to support long-term rural development.
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