KUPPAM • ANDHRA PRADESH • ESTD. 1997
Established in 1997 by the Government of Andhra Pradesh with the support of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, Dravidian University is dedicated to the integrated development of Dravidian languages, literature, culture, folklore, history and tribal studies. Located at the tri-junction of three states, it serves as a beacon of higher education in this region.
Water Harvesting and Green Energy Initiatives
The primary objective of this practice is to develop an eco-friendly and sustainable green campus through the utilization of natural energy sources, preservation of flora and fauna, and conservation of a pollution-free environment.
The University aims at harvesting rainwater by constructing small check dams, farm ponds, contour trenches, and water beds, thereby ensuring effective water conservation and groundwater recharge.
Promotion of unconventional energy sources, biodiversity conservation, cultivation of medicinal plants, response to national energy policies, utilization of solar energy, and contribution to the green economy form the core objectives of this initiative.
The initiative also seeks to provide a serene and inspiring ambience to the University community while protecting natural habitats and promoting sustainable living practices.
When 1090 acres of land was identified for establishing Dravidian University in 1995, the area was largely barren with hillocks, bushes, and weeds. Except for a few scattered patches of greenery, the land lacked vegetation and water resources.
There were no natural water bodies and rainwater was not being conserved. Creation of water channels appeared extremely difficult due to the uneven and rocky terrain. It was initially felt that the land was unsuitable for the establishment of an academic institution.
However, the University authorities envisioned transforming the barren land into a green campus through systematic and sustained ecological measures. Since the conversion required significant financial investment, external support was sought.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) extended support by sanctioning a recurring grant of Rs. 50.00 lakhs for afforestation. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed, and the University campus was named Srinivasavanam.
In collaboration with Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), the University initiated a large-scale plantation programme across the 1090-acre campus. Initially, 75,000 saplings were planted at a cost of Rs. 35.00 lakhs.
Over the years, these saplings have grown into fully matured trees, creating a lush green, pollution-free campus. The afforestation drive has continued uninterrupted for over two decades.
To preserve traditional medicinal knowledge, the University earmarked 10 acres of land for cultivating rare medicinal plants. At present, the herbal garden consists of around 4,500 plants belonging to 250 species.
Considering the tropical climate and low rainfall in Kuppam, rainwater harvesting became a priority. Rainwater sumps with a capacity of one lakh litres were constructed near major buildings to collect and reuse rainwater for gardening.
The campus now houses 16 major check dams and 6 farm ponds with a combined storage capacity of nearly 838 lakh litres. Around 40,000 metres of contour trenches, 35 soak pits (Inkudu Guntalu), and nearly 400 rock-fill dams were constructed to prevent soil erosion and enhance groundwater recharge.
In line with the National Energy Policy, the University entered into an MoU with the New & Renewable Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh (NREDCAP) and M/s. Rich Phytocare Pvt. Ltd. Rooftop solar panels covering 60,000 square feet were installed, generating 430 KWP of solar power.
The solar power system meets the University's energy needs, reduces diesel consumption, ensures uninterrupted power supply, and contributes to the green economy with zero emissions and minimal maintenance.
Further strengthening the green initiative, the University planted over 4,000 additional saplings under the “Vanam–Manam” programme of the Andhra Pradesh Government with the active participation of the campus community.
The sustained environmental initiatives have transformed the University into a green campus with extensive tree cover, natural and artificial ponds, and improved ecological balance.
Groundwater levels have significantly increased due to check dams, soak pits, and contour trenches. Soil erosion has been effectively prevented throughout the campus.
Even during severe droughts in the surrounding regions, the University has never faced water scarcity. The campus atmosphere is rich in oxygen and provides a healthy and conducive learning environment.
The presence and survival of Golden Lichen within the campus serves as a biological indicator of low pollution levels and validates the success of the University's environmental conservation efforts.
Absence of a compound wall across the vast campus allows cattle to damage saplings before maturity. The rocky, uneven terrain with boulders poses challenges in diverting water channels and constructing roads.
Laying internal roads and accessing remote areas of the campus requires significant physical labour, technical expertise, and financial resources.
Despite low rainfall and harsh climatic conditions, the University has proactively constructed and maintained multiple check dams and water conservation structures to prevent drought.
Construction activities have been carried out while preserving the natural rocky and hilly terrain to maintain ecological balance. Continuous efforts ensure that the University remains resilient against water scarcity.
