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Context

• The use of Kundi for generations shows a cultural connection to sustainable water management.
• This also shows how traditional knowledge can address modern environmental challenges in water scarce areas.

Details

• Kundi or (kund) is a traditional rainwater harvesting system. It is found primarily in desert regions in Churu (Rajasthan).
• The system is important in arid & semi arid areas where water is scarce & rainfall is less.

Features of Kundi

• Structure:
  • A Kundi is a deep, circular or rectangular pit.
  • It can either be dug into the ground or built above
  • The pit is lined with stones, bricks or other materials to increase durability & prevent leakage.
• Water Collection:
  • Rainwater is collected from rooftops or channels & funneled into the kundi.
  • The collected water is stored for use during the dry season.
• Covering and Protection:
  • The kundi is covered with a lid or stone slab to avoid contamination from debris & to reduce evaporation. This preserves water quality.

Traditional Water Harvesting Systems in Rajasthan

• Johar is a type of check dam. It is used to collect and store rainwater, mostly it is constructed in open fields.
• Tanka is a small water storage vessel. It is used for domestic purposes and it is usually for individual water collection in rural areas.

Significance of Kundi

• Kundi plays an important role in water conservation in areas where surface water is limited & groundwater is difficult to access.
• It reduces dependence on external water sources and it also promotes self sufficiency in water use during dry season.
• The use of Kundi for generations shows a cultural connection to sustainable water management.
• This also shows how traditional knowledge can address modern environmental challenges in water scarce areas.
• By storing rainwater, Kundi also aids in sustainability. It ensures water is available for drinking, irrigation & domestic use when natural water sources are very less.

Water conservation schemes in India

Source: DTE