Sustainable Water Case Study: Wakel River Basin

• Where is the Wakel River Basin located?


  It is found in Rajasthan in Northern India.
• What problems has a lack of clean water created for the Wakel River Basin region?


  • Unregulated water extraction leads to over-extraction by villages.
  • Lack of groundwater causes soil salinisation and waterlogging.
  • Low availability of clean water affects crop irrigation and food security.
• Who managed the Wakel River Basin project?

  The United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
• When did the Wakel River Basin programme run?

  Between 2004 and 2014.
• What is a taanka?


  A traditional rainwater harvesting technique in Rajasthan.
• How does a taanka function?

  It collects rainwater in underground concrete containers from roof gutters.
• What is one advantage of using taankas?

  Concrete ensures the water is cool, reducing evaporation.
• What is one disadvantage of using taankas?

  Concrete production releases carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming.
• What is a johed?


  A small dam made from earth and sand to increase river flow.
• What is one advantage of using a johed?

  Johed dams can keep river water flowing all year round.
• What is one disadvantage of using a johed?


  Johed dams affect the water supply to only a small extent.
• What are pats?


  Pats are irrigation channels that transfer water to fields.
• What are bunds made of?


  They are made of stones and lined with leaves.
• What is one advantage of using pats?

  Farms can receive a constant water supply, reducing crop failure risk.
• What is one disadvantage of using pats?

  Channels need constant maintenance and clearing due to silt accumulation.
• What does water supply education involve?

  Creating awareness about protecting clean water supplies and reducing waste.
• What is one advantage of carrying out water supply education?

  Reducing overextraction can help decrease soil erosion and salinisation.
• What is one disadvantage of carrying out water supply education?


  It is a long-term solution that takes time to change habits.