Pond Rejuvenation
Watershed Intervention
Kutch: Reviving Water Resources, Strengthening Livelihoods
Streamlining Sustainability, Rippling Prosperity
40 Ponds
Rejuvenated18
Villages75 Cr Litres
Total Water Storage Capacity15,000
Lives Impacted
Introduction
Known for the vast expanse of the Rann of Kutch, the Kutch region of Gujarat is characterised by its arid climate, low rainfall and recurring water scarcity. With annual rainfall averaging only 338 mm and agriculture largely dependent on unpredictable monsoons, communities have long struggled with limited water availability. Declining groundwater levels and high salinity, with TDS levels exceeding 3,600 ppm, further constrained agricultural productivity and affected the quality of life.
The scarcity of water restricted farmers to cultivating a single rain-fed crop with modest yields and limited returns. Livestock rearing, despite its potential to supplement incomes, was also affected due to inadequate access to water and fodder. Recognising the need for a sustainable solution, we initiated an integrated watershed development programme to enhance water security, improve agricultural productivity and strengthen livelihoods across the region.
Our Intervention
Following a detailed assessment of water availability, groundwater conditions and TDS levels, we identified a cluster of 18 villages that continued to experience drought-like conditions despite having village ponds. To unlock the potential of these water bodies, we undertook the desilting and deepening of all ponds with the objective of increasing water storage capacity, improving groundwater recharge and enhancing water quality.
The intervention was designed around a holistic watershed management approach aimed at addressing water scarcity, reducing salinity, improving agricultural resilience and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities. By rejuvenating these ponds, we created a stronger foundation for long-term ecological restoration and community-led development.
Impact
The intervention has significantly enhanced water security across the region by creating an additional water storage potential of 51 crore litres, increasing the total storage capacity to 75 crore litres. Improved groundwater recharge has raised groundwater levels, while TDS levels have also reduced, making water suitable for drinking and other domestic purposes. Reliable access to water has transformed agricultural practices. Farmers have moved from cultivating a single rain-fed crop to adopting multiple irrigated crops with higher productivity and returns. Many farmers who initially left the villages due to water scarcity have returned and settled here.
The intervention has further strengthened livestock-based livelihoods by ensuring year-round water availability for nearly 30,000 animals and supporting the cultivation of fodder crops such as Napier grass. Overall, the initiative has directly benefitted 15,000 lives. Through integrated watershed management, community participation and sustainable resource planning, the intervention has created lasting environmental and socio-economic impact across the villages of Kutch.
