Udaipur, India Partnership
About the Area
Our partner community, Bhutiya, is located 50 km outside of Udaipur City, Rajasthan, India. Located in the desert region, the community of Bhutiya has long been familiar with the perils of a nine month dry season. However, studies and community feedback show that in recent years the population is experiencing elevated water scarcity. Community-wide monsoon rainwater dependency, overexploitation of groundwater resources and poor water conservation lead to crop failure and malnutrition of livestock and family members. With 70% of the southern Rajasthan population in the agriculture industry, water scarcity has a vast impact on livelihood, health, and economic stability.
LOCAL PARTNERS
Jagran Jan Vikas Samiti
To successfully plan and implement this project, the team has partnered with Jagran Jan Vikas Samiti, a local NGO well-established in the region. Their local knowledge, logistical support, and community relationships have been instrumental in establishing relations and maintaining communication. Click here to learn more about our ally’s previous programs in southern Rajasthan!
About THE project
The Bhutiya Water Management Program seeks to address water scarcity caused by climate change, the over-extraction of groundwater, and inefficient irrigation practices. The first assessment trip took place in January 2019, focusing on collecting technical data about water quality and conducting community surveys on water usage and behavior. A second trip in January 2020 aimed to define the project scope and choose a construction site. In June 2023, the project team completed an implementation trip to the community. Currently, they are in the monitoring and evaluation phase to ensure the percolation pond is functioning effectively.
The project focuses on developing a percolation pond and contour trenches to promote groundwater recharge, minimize water loss caused by evaporation, and provide an alternative water source for irrigation. The current phase of this project involves ensuring the project is working according to our design. Ownership will ultimately rest in the hands of the Bhutiya community and great emphasis will be placed on education and training workshops. The EWB team will work with local officials to institute a Community Water Board to oversee system operation, maintenance, and finances. The project team will continue to monitor and evaluate system efficacy and impact after implementation is complete.
Fundraising is vital to securing the continued success of this program. Click here to donate and support the continued monitoring of the Bhutiya water management program.
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