Traditional Methods of Water Harvesting in Rajasthan:
Baori: These are rectangular, square or circular reservoirs of water. The reservoir can be accessed by steps made of bricks or ornate stones and hence are also called step-wells. The reservoir is surrounded by a courtyard. The steps are decorated with ornate railings, pillars and balconies. The balconies are adorned with local deities related to water. Construction of baoris in Rajasthan was done at individual and social levels. Baoris can be found in all districts of Rajasthan,
Pond: Rainwater is collected in ponds which serve as a source of drinking water for humans and cattle. Most of the ponds are built near slopes. Construction of ponds has been associated with religious and social feelings. Hence, it becomes easier to protect and conserve them.
Lakes: Lakes are quite popular methods to conserve flowing water in this state. These lakes were built by local rulers, merchants and banjaras. Lakes provide drinking water and water for irrigation. These lakes fed the canals to provide irrigation for nearby areas. These lakes have facilitated the social and religious development of nearby areas and have also helped in sustaining life during drought and famine.
Nadi: This is a smaller form of pond which is in plenty in western Rajasthan. Nadi is used for rainwater harvesting in plains of desert. A nadi is generally 4 to 5 meter deep. If a nadi is shallower than this, then rainwater can be collected only for a short period because of the clay coming along with rainwater. The nadi is cleared of accumulated soil every year so that its depth can be maintained. Nadis have been important source of drinking water for rural population, cattle and wildlife in western Rajasthan.
Tanka: This is a traditional method of rainwater harvesting in western Rajasthan. This is 5 to 6 meter deep pit which is made in each house and field. Its top is covered with stones or other locally available material. Rainwater from rooftops and drains is collected in tanka. Its inner portion is covered with a layer of ash and gravel. This layer prevents seepage of water and erosion of the bottom. Tankas are being made under Jal Swavalamban Yojna and other schemes.
Johar: This is a popular method of rainwater harvesting in Shekhawati region and in Haryana. This is similar to tanka but its upper portion is larger than a tanka, is round and open. Rainwater is collected through drains in it. This serves as a good source of drinking water for people and cattle.
Beri or Small Well: These are made in western Rajasthan by digging a 5 to 6 meter deep pit on catchment land of pond and khadin. Its diameter is between 2 and 3 feet and walls are lined with stones. Stones on walls allow seepage of groundwater. This is used in summer when the rainwater dries up. This is called ‘beri’ in local language. Beris are in plenty in Barmer and Khadin. Khadin is a method of water harvesting which was used by the Paliwal Brahmins of Jaisalmer during Medieval Period. This is an ideal method to ensure water for drinking and irrigation. In this method, rainwater in hilly areas is collected along slopes; by making temporary or permanent check dam. Excess water is allowed to drain out so that another khadin can be fed with water. Khadin helps in recharge of underground aquifer, soil conservation helps in maintaining moisture in the soil. This helps in getting better yield of rabi and kharif crops. This also helps in ensuring availability of water in beris which are built along its edges and in its catchment area.
