The need to use India's historic water management systems

Published: 18th Oct, 2021

Context

Huge architectural gems built deep into the Earth like inverted fortresses are scattered around India – and restoring them may be a solution to help the country's parched communities.

What are Stepwells?

Evidence of stepwells dates back to the Indus Valley Civilisationbetween 2500-1700 BC.
Initially constructed as crude trenches, they slowly evolved into engineering marvels between 11th-15th Century.
In 2016, Stepwell Atlas, mapped the coordinates of around 3,000 existing stepwells in India.
Delhi, the capital, alone has 32 stepwells.
Stepwells are multi-storied subterranean structures with significant ornamental and architectural features. They usually have two parts:
- a vertical shaft of water
- the cascading galleries, chambers and a flight of orchestrated steps

Water extraction in India

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), India is the world's largest extractor of groundwater.
The groundwater level in India is estimated to have declined by 61% between 2007 and 2017.
The depletion of this vital resource not only threatens people's access to drinking water but also food security by resulting in a reduction in food crops by up to 68% in severely-hit regions.
Rainfall in India
India receives about 400 million hectare metres of rain annually, but nearly 70% of surface water is unfit for human consumption due to pollution.
India is ranked 120th out of 122 countries in the water quality index.
An estimated 200,000 people die every year due to inadequate water.

How Rajasthan is ahead in water conservation?

In 2018, the government of Rajasthan drew up a comprehensive framework, with technical assistance from the World Bank, for restoration of the stepwells, including Chand Bawri.
The Rajasthan government, through its flagship program Mukhyamantri Jal Swavalamban Abhiyan, has taken initiatives to make villages self-sufficient in water by reviving the non-functional rainwater harvesting structures.

Chand Bawri in Abhaneri, Rajasthan

Chand Bawri is India's largest and deepest stepwell.
It is an exquisitely carved maze of 3,500 steps, arranged in perfect symmetry, descends with geometrical precision to reach a well.
- On third side, criss-crossed steps encircle the water on three sides.
- The fourth side is adorned by a pavilion with embellished galleries and balconies.
Built by: Rajput ruler Raja Chanda during the 8th-9th Century.
Extending down 13 floors, or 100ft (30m), into the ground, it is a captivating example of inverted architecture.

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The need to use India's historic water management systems

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