Question 1

Question 1Discuss how rainwater harvesting in semi-arid regions of Rajasthan is carried out.

Accepted Answer

In arid and semi-arid regions, agricultural fields are converted into rain fed storage structures that allow the water to stand and moisten the soil like the 'Khadins' in Jaisalmer and 'Johads' in other parts of Rajasthan. In areas of Bikaner, Phalodi and Barmer, almost all the houses traditionally had underground tanks or tankas for storing drinking water. These tankas were part of the well-developed rooftop rainwater harvesting system and were built inside the main house or the courtyard. They were connected to the sloping roofs of the houses through a pipe. Rain falling on the rooftops is collected and stored in the tankas.

Question 2

Question 2Describe how modern adaptations of traditional rainwater harvesting methods are being carried out to conserve and store water.

Accepted Answer

Storage tanks are now a days not so common. The rain water is now a days collected and is guided to hand pump, bore well to recharge ground water. The rooftop rain water may be guided to an abandoned well or a soak-pit constructed in order to recharge ground water.Construction of percolation ponds in catchment area is done. These ponds collect runoff water.In few houses where tanks are still used to store rain water, modern methods are used for its safe usage. Cleanliness of water tank is maintained and there is arrangement for proper filtration of water.

Question 3

Question 3Here are some false statements. Identify the mistakes and rewrite them correctly.Multiplying urban centres with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have helped in proper utilisation of water resources.Regulating and damming of rivers does not affect the river's natural flow and its sediment flow.In Gujarat, the Sabarmati basin farmers were not agitated when higher priority was given to water supply in urban areas, particularly during droughts.Today in Rajasthan, the practice of rooftop rainwater water harvesting has gained popularity despite high water availability due to the Indira Gandhi Canal.

Accepted Answer

Multiplying urban centres with large and dense populations and urban lifestyles have added to water requirement and further aggravated the problem.Regulating and damming of rivers affect the river's natural flow and its sediment flow.In Gujarat, the Sabarmati basin farmers were agitated and almost caused a riot when higher priority was given to water supply in urban areas, particularly during droughts.Today in Rajasthan, the practice of rooftop rainwater water harvesting is declining because of high water availability due to the Indira Gandhi Canal.

Water Resources

Answer in about 120 words

Multiple Choice Questions