Gujarat

A look at the traditional harvesting techniques used across the country.

Jhalara

Very similar to a baoli, a jhalara is a step well. It operates by the similar principle as a baoli. It neither has any catchment of its own nor is it connected to any watercourse. It collects the subterranean seepage of a talab or lake nearly. A jhalara is used primarily for bathing purposes. It is particularly seen in Gujarat.

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Virda

In the saline regions of Kutch district in Gujarat where water is brackish, Maldharis, a nomadic tribe, have developed a unique method of conserving freshwater.

A virda is a shallow well dug in low depressions called jheels. Generally, a series of virdas are grouped together. This network of wells-in-a-tank ensures that water is available throughout the year.