Understanding a successful indigenous rainwater harvesting system in Banni area of Kachchh, Gujarat

Abstract

Water scarcity problems in arid regions have been successfully tackled by water harvesting from the times immemorial. This study focuses on an indigenous rainwater harvesting system, locally known as virda that was evolved centuries ago in Banni grassland of Kachchh, Gujarat, India. Animal husbandry is the major occupation of local people called as maldharies, and agriculture is not possible due to low rainfall and inherent salinity present in soil and water. The indigenous water harvesting system based on traditional knowledge is found very effective in sustaining livelihoods of people and life of animals. Success of virda is evident from the fact that the method, developed centuries back, is still found in existence and operational. This indigenous technology developed by the maldharies learnt over the generations based on their wisdom and experience, is not only a traditional method rather it has also been embedded into their culture. Quality of virda water is found suitable for drinking purpose. Thus, virda is a unique water culture for the maldharies community of Banni. Moreover, suitable scientific interventions are suggested to integrate with traditional knowledge-based indigenous technology for further improvement.