Traditional Water Harvesting Methods in Western India

Western India, particularly Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat, has an arid and semi-arid climate with low and erratic rainfall. Over centuries, indigenous communities have developed highly efficient traditional water harvesting techniques suited to these challenging conditions. These methods are based on the principles of rainwater collection, groundwater recharge, and storage to ensure water availability during dry periods.

1. Kund or Kundi

Concept:
A Kund (also known as Kundi in some regions) is a saucer-shaped underground water storage structure designed to collect and store rainwater. It is commonly found in the Thar Desert and other arid areas of Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Terminologies:

• Catchment area: The surface surrounding the Kund, often plastered with lime or stone, which directs rainwater into the storage chamber.
• Inlet filters: Small sedimentation pits and mesh covers that prevent debris and contaminants from entering.
• Storage chamber: A deep underground tank, usually lined with lime or clay to prevent seepage and bacterial growth.

Example:
In Barmer district, Rajasthan, many villages still use Kunds as their primary water source, ensuring survival in one of the driest regions of India.

2. Paar System

Concept:
The Paar system is a rainwater harvesting method used in sandy deserts to store water in underground reservoirs. It relies on collecting surface runoff from gently sloping lands.

Terminologies:

• Paar land: A natural or artificially leveled surface where rainwater accumulates.
• Khadins or Beris: Shallow pits dug within the Paar to trap and store water for human and livestock use.

Example:
In Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, the Paar system helps communities sustain drinking water supplies for months after the monsoon season.

3. Kuis or Beris

Concept:
These are narrow, deep wells dug in sandy areas to access groundwater recharged by rainwater infiltration. They are often constructed near dried riverbeds or catchment areas.

Terminologies:

• Recharge zone: The surrounding area where rainwater percolates into the ground, refilling the Beri.
• Lime or stone lining: Used to prevent the well from collapsing and to maintain water purity.

Example:
In Bikaner and Jodhpur, farmers dig Kuis to tap into subsurface water during prolonged dry spells.

4. Khadin System

Concept:
A Khadin is a traditional agricultural water harvesting system that captures and stores surface runoff for soil moisture conservation and groundwater recharge. It consists of a bund (embankment) built at the lower end of a sloping land to retain rainwater.

Terminologies:

• Bund: An earthen embankment that slows down runoff, allowing water to percolate into the soil.
• Crop fields: Located within the retained water area to take advantage of the increased moisture.

Example:
The Rajasthan Desert Development Programme has promoted the revival of Khadins in Jaisalmer and Barmer, significantly improving agricultural productivity.

5. Talabs (Ponds and Lakes)

Concept:
Talabs are man-made reservoirs designed to store monsoon rainwater for drinking, irrigation, and domestic use. These range from small ponds to large lakes.

Terminologies:

• Johads: Smaller earthen ponds that function as village reservoirs.
• Baoris/Stepwells: Deep structures with steps leading down to stored water, commonly found in Rajasthan.

Example:
The Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer, built in the 14th century, still serves as a water source for local communities.