Pune: CWPRS Celebrates 109th Foundation Day with Open House for Public and Students
Khadakwasla, 14th June 2025: The Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS), Khadakwasla, marked its 109th Foundation Day with an ‘Open House Day’, providing a unique opportunity for school and college students as well as the general public to explore the institution’s cutting-edge research in water resource management, dam engineering, coastal development, hydropower, and river engineering.
The celebration began with a tree plantation ceremony by Chief Guest D.S. Chaskar, Chief Engineer at the National Water Academy, and CWPRS Director Dr. Prabhat Chandra. In his welcome address, Dr. Chandra highlighted CWPRS’s legacy of over a century in supporting national development through basic and applied research in water resources, energy, and coastal infrastructure. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to the Ministry of Jal Shakti’s vision of a water-secure, climate-resilient, and technologically advanced India.
Delivering a technical talk on Water Governance, Chief Engineer Chaskar underlined the critical role of water in ensuring food and energy security. He called for the creation of an inclusive, efficient, and tech-enabled ecosystem aligned with the National Water Policy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The program also featured the release of a CWPRS anthem composed by scientist Sanjay Jha and the unveiling of a brochure for an upcoming national conference hosted by CWPRS.
Additional Director Dr. M. Selva Balan and Scientist ‘E’ G.V. Raman Rao, who coordinated the event, shared details about the enthusiastic participation of over 3,000 students and nearly 4,000 members of the public, including senior officials.
Interactive activities were held to engage the audience. M.Z. Qamar and his team conducted a quiz on water conservation for students, with winners receiving certificates and prizes. CWPRS staff also performed a street play emphasizing the importance of conserving water. Informative documentaries highlighting CWPRS’s major projects were screened for visitors.
Visitors explored physical models and demonstrations of significant national projects including the Kalpasar Hangar, Tapovan Vishnugad, Ratle Dam, Polavaram Dam, Yamuna and Kosi rivers, Mumbai Port, Kamarajar Port, the Current Meter Rating Trolley, and the Mangdechhu Reservoir Flushing Model.
The Open House served as a platform to inspire young minds and raise awareness among citizens about the vital role of water research and conservation in sustainable development.
