The Challenge
A watershed development project in the Chasu Tributary catchment area of Jawhar Taluka, Palghar district, Maharashtra required an independent integrated audit covering environmental outcomes, social impact, and financial management. The project had implemented soil and water conservation structures, community forestry, and livelihood interventions in a tribal-dominated area.
Our Approach
- Environmental audit: Assessed effectiveness of check dams, contour bunding, gully plugging, and afforestation on groundwater recharge, soil erosion reduction, and biodiversity recovery.
- Social audit: Evaluated community participation, tribal livelihood impact, gender inclusion, and capacity building outcomes through household surveys and focus group discussions.
- Financial audit: Verified expenditure against sanctioned estimates, assessed value for money, and reviewed procurement processes and fund utilisation patterns.
Outcome
The integrated audit report provided a holistic assessment of project performance. Environmental indicators showed measurable improvement in groundwater levels and reduced soil erosion. Social audit confirmed strong community ownership, while the financial review identified process improvements for future phases.