Traditional Water Management

Chapter Summary

Rajasthan has a rich history of water conservation due to its geographical conditions. Traditional systems were developed to harvest rainwater, often integrating them with social and religious customs. Key systems include Lakes, Nadis, Bawdis, and Khadins.

Key Traditional Water Sources

• Nadi: Small excavated ponds for collecting rainwater. First constructed by Rao Jodha in 1520 AD. They are vital in Western Rajasthan (Jodhpur, Barmer, Nagaur).
• Bawdi (Stepwells): Wells with steps, often featuring architectural beauty.
  • Chand Bawdi (Abhaneri): Famous for its structure.
  • The text Aparajitprichcha mentions four types of Bawdis. Mention is also found in Meghdoot.
• Tanka: Underground tanks found in forts and desert homes to store rainwater.
  • The catchment area is called Agor or Paytan.
  • They are often built on a slope to collect water.
• Khadin: An agricultural water harvesting system developed by the Paliwal Brahmins of Jaisalmer in the 15th Century. It allows cultivation on arid land by collecting water against an embankment.
• Jhalara: Rectangular stepwells that collect seepage from upstream lakes or tanks (e.g., Mahamandir Jhalara, Jodhpur, 1660 AD). Used for religious baths, not drinking.
• Kui / Beri: Deep pits (10-12 meters) dug near tanks to collect seeping water. They remain a source of water even when tanks dry up (e.g., during the 1987 drought).
• Toba: Similar to a Nadi but deeper, with a catchment area surrounded by dense soil structure.