LAKES OF RAJASTHAN

LAKES OF RAJASTHAN

Rajasthan, though largely arid, is home to a variety of lakes. These lakes are generally divided into two categories based on the nature of their water content:

1. Brine Water Lakes

These are salty or saline water lakes, primarily due to geological factors. The presence of Mica Schist rocks inside the lakes is scientifically known to contribute to their salinity. The brine water lakes in Rajasthan are remnants of the Tethys Sea, which once covered much of the region in ancient geological times.

• Cause of Salinity: The major cause is the geological presence of Mica Schist rocks and remnants of the Tethys Sea.
• Area with Maximum Brine Lakes: The district of Nagaur has the highest concentration of brine water lakes.

Brine Water Lakes in Rajasthan

2. Fresh Water Lakes

In contrast to brine water lakes, fresh water lakes are replenished by rainwater or freshwater sources. These lakes play an essential role in supporting local ecosystems, agriculture, and daily human activities.

• Cause of Fresh Water: Fresh water lakes are filled by natural sources, including rainfall, river inflows, and groundwater recharge.
• Area with Maximum Fresh Water Lakes: Udaipur, often referred to as the City of Lakes, has the highest number of fresh water lakes.

Expanded Explanation and Analysis:

1. The Importance of Brine Water Lakes in Rajasthan:

• Economic Value: Brine water lakes, particularly Sambhar Lake, play a vital role in salt production. The Sambhar Salt Lake is India’s largest inland saltwater lake, contributing significantly to Rajasthan’s economy through the extraction of salt.
• Historical Significance: The presence of the Tethys Sea millions of years ago influenced the region’s geology. As the sea receded, it left behind a series of saline basins, which evolved into brine lakes.
• Biodiversity: Despite the saline conditions, brine lakes support a range of specialized flora and fauna. For instance, flamingos are commonly seen around Sambhar Lake, which becomes an essential habitat during the migration season.
• Ecological and Economic Importance: Rajasthan’s brine lakes, including Sambhar and Panchpadra, provide a unique environment that supports both economic activities (especially salt production) and ecological diversity. Migratory birds, such as flamingos and cranes, use these saline ecosystems as resting and feeding grounds during their long migratory journeys. These lakes thus contribute to both industrial and ecological sustainability in the region.
• Challenges:

• Environmental Degradation: Excessive salt production, industrial waste, and climate change are leading to habitat degradation, threatening both biodiversity and the longevity of these lakes. The death of migratory birds in Sambhar Lake is a significant indicator of the environmental strain on these saline bodies of water.
• Sustainability Issues: To ensure the long-term viability of salt production and the ecological health of the lakes, more sustainable salt-extraction practices need to be adopted. Ensuring that the balance between human economic activities and ecological preservation is maintained is key to the continued prosperity of these lakes.

2. The Role of Fresh Water Lakes:

• Water Conservation: Freshwater lakes such as those in Udaipur, including Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake, and Jaisamand Lake, are crucial for water conservation in this arid state.
• Cultural Importance: Many fresh water lakes have deep cultural and religious significance, such as Pushkar Lake, which is a sacred Hindu site.
• Tourism: The picturesque lakes in Udaipur and surrounding regions attract tourists from all over the world, contributing significantly to the state’s economy.

SAMBHAR LAKE

Sambhar Lake, located in the Jaipur district of Rajasthan, is the largest inland brine water lake in India. This lake is historically significant and a key economic contributor to salt production in the country.

• Creator: According to the Bijolia inscription, the lake is believed to have been created by Vasudev Chauhan.
• Geographical Importance: Sambhar Lake is not only the largest in Rajasthan but also the third largest brine water lake in the country, following the Chilika Lake in Odisha and the Pulicat Lake in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Size and Structure of Sambhar Lake:

• Total Area: The lake covers a distance of 36 km in length, with a width ranging from 3 km to 12 km.
• Ramsar Site: Recognized as a wetland of international importance, Sambhar Lake was listed as a Ramsar Site in 1990. This status protects the lake’s biodiversity, particularly the migratory birds like Kurja (cranes) and flamingos, which rely on the lake for habitat.

Economic Contribution:

• Salt Production: Sambhar Lake is a major hub for salt production in India. It contributes 8% to the total salt production of India and a significant 80-90% of Rajasthan’s salt output.

Salt Production Contribution by Sambhar Lake

• India: 8%
• Rajasthan: 80% to 90%
• Salt Management: The production of salt from this lake is managed by Hindustan Salt Limited (HSL). The salt produced here is locally known as “Kyar”.

Environmental Concerns:

Recently, Sambhar Lake was in the news due to the death of Kurja birds. Investigations revealed that these birds succumbed to avian botulism, a disease caused by toxins produced in stagnant water environments, which often affect migratory birds.

Sambhar Lake Salt-Making Process Diagram

The figure represents the method of Kyari salt making, where evaporation ponds are used to extract salt. The image demonstrates the division of the lake into salt-making areas (represented by triangles for evaporation beds), which help in the collection of brine that eventually crystallizes into salt.

PANCHPADRA LAKE

• Location: Panchpadra Lake is located in the Barmer district.
• Quality of Salt: The sodium chloride content in the salt produced from Panchpadra is remarkably high, reaching 98%. This makes it one of the best quality salts produced in Rajasthan.
• Salt Producing Community: The Kharwal caste is traditionally engaged in salt production around Panchpadra Lake, utilizing their unique indigenous knowledge of salt extraction techniques.
• Vegetation: The Morli bush is a key element in salt production in this region. These bushes are used in various stages of the extraction process.

Importance of Panchpadra Salt

The high purity of the sodium chloride content from Panchpadra has made it a significant contributor to the salt industry in Rajasthan. The salt extracted here is utilized not just locally, but also distributed across the country for various industrial and household purposes.

DEEDWANA LAKE

• Location: Deedwana Lake is situated in Nagore district.
• Salt Quality: The salt produced from Deedwana Lake is of lower quality compared to other brine lakes in Rajasthan. This is because sodium sulfate is predominantly found here in place of sodium chloride (NaCl), which reduces the quality of salt extracted.

Industry and Utilization:

• Rajasthan State Chemical Works: Established in 1964, the Rajasthan State Chemical Works was set up near Deedwana Lake to harness its mineral-rich waters. The facility primarily focuses on extracting chemicals like sodium sulfate, which is widely used in various industries.
• Uses of Sodium Sulfate: Sodium sulfate is an essential raw material in industries such as glass making, paper manufacturing, and the leather industry.

JAISAMAND LAKE

• Location: Jaisamand Lake is a freshwater lake situated on the Gomti River in Udaipur. Udaipur is often referred to as the “City of Lakes,” and Jaisamand is one of the largest artificial lakes in the region.
• Construction: The lake was built by Maharana Jai Singh between the years 1685 and 1691 AD.
• Architectural Features:
  • The lake is surrounded by the Aravalli hills, which provide a natural catchment area for water.
  • Seven islands can be found in the lake, with notable names like Baba ka Bhangra and Pyari.
  • There are two important canals associated with Jaisamand Lake, Shyampura Canal and Bhat Canal, which serve irrigation purposes and help maintain water levels during dry seasons.

Layout for Jaisamand Lake

The diagram provided depicts the layout of Jaisamand Lake and its geographical features:

1. Aravalli Hills: This range forms the natural boundary of the lake, acting as a watershed for rainwater.
2. Gomti River: This river feeds the lake, ensuring a continuous supply of freshwater.
3. Islands: Seven islands are located within the lake. The notable ones are Baba ka Bhangra and Pyari, which serve as local landmarks.
4. Canals: The Shyam Pura Canal and Bhat Canal serve the purpose of regulating water flow and distributing water to agricultural lands.

The diagram also highlights the man-made elements (canals) that control the water flow from the lake, making it a well-planned system for water conservation and irrigation.

Importance of Jaisamand Lake:

• Irrigation and Water Supply: The lake is crucial for the irrigation of surrounding agricultural fields and serves as a water source for nearby villages.
• Tourism: Jaisamand Lake is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty, historical significance, and the islands located within it.

Characteristics of Jaisamand Lake

• Alternative Name: Dhebar Lake is also called Jaisamand Lake, and this is because it is located in the Dhebar Nal (a local water channel).
• Largest Artificial Freshwater Lake: Dhebar Lake holds the title of being the largest artificial freshwater lake in Rajasthan and one of the largest in India.
• Islands in Dhebar Lake:

• There are a total of seven islands in Dhebar Lake. The largest island is named “Baba Ka Bhangra”, while the smallest is called “Pyaari”. These islands are important natural features of the lake.
• The Bhil-Meena tribe inhabits these islands, showcasing the lake’s role in supporting local communities and indigenous cultures.
• Canals: Two canals have been excavated from Dhebar Lake:

• • Shyampura Canal
  • Bhat Canal

These canals serve important irrigation and water management purposes for the surrounding areas, supporting agriculture and maintaining water levels.

• Religious Significance: The Narmadeshwar Mahadev Temple is located on the banks of Dhebar Lake, adding cultural and religious importance to the lake. This temple was built by Maharana Jai Singh, the same ruler who constructed the lake.

PICHHOLA LAKE

• Location: Pichhola Lake is a freshwater lake located in Udaipur.
• Historical Significance: The lake was constructed under the reign of Rana Lakha by the Banjara community to commemorate a bull. This demonstrates the lake’s historical and cultural value, being deeply intertwined with local customs and traditions.
• Rivers Feeding Pichhola Lake: Two rivers, Sisarma and Bujhda, feed into the lake, ensuring a consistent supply of freshwater.

The diagram illustrates the geographical features and key landmarks associated with Pichhola Lake:

1. Aravalli Hills: The natural boundary that shapes the catchment area for the rivers flowing into the lake.
2. Sisarma and Bujhda Rivers: These rivers flow down from the hills and converge to feed Pichhola Lake.
3. Jagmandir and Jagniwas Islands: These two islands are prominent features in Pichhola Lake. Jagmandir is known for its historical palace, while Jagniwas is home to the famous Lake Palace.
4. City Palace, Udaipur: A major historical and architectural site, located along the banks of Pichhola Lake.
5. Fateh Sagar (or Duke of Connaught Dam): This dam, sometimes referred to as Dewali Pond, is part of the lake system. The Fateh Sagar connects with Pichhola through Swaroop Sagar.
6. Other Landmarks:
   • Nehru Park: A recreational spot located nearby.
   • Telescope and Solar Observatory: These scientific observatories enhance the modern relevance of the area.
   • Virtual Fish Aquarium: A tourist attraction that adds a contemporary aspect to the traditional significance of the lake.

Characteristics of Pichhola Lake:

• Natni ka Chabutra: This historical structure is located near Pichhola Lake and was built by Rana Lakha. It holds cultural significance and is often visited by tourists due to its association with folklore and royal history.
• Jag Mandir and Jag Niwas: These are two prominent islands within the lake. Jag Mandir is famous for its historical palace, where Emperor Shah Jahan took refuge during the rebellion period. The Jag Niwas island houses the luxurious Lake Palace, which is now a hotel.
• Historical Refuge: Shah Jahan’s stay at Jag Mandir during a rebellion adds to the historical legacy of Pichhola Lake, connecting the Mughal and Rajput histories.
• Water Distribution: The excess water from Pichhola Lake is managed and distributed to the nearby Fateh Sagar Lake, ensuring balanced water levels in both lakes, which is crucial for Udaipur’s water management.

FATEH SAGAR

• Location: Fateh Sagar Lake is located in Udaipur.
• Historical Construction: Initially constructed by Maharaja Jai Singh in 1688 AD, Fateh Sagar was later reconstructed by Maharaja Fateh Singh in 1888 after it sustained damage.
• Rivers: Fateh Sagar is fed by two rivers:

• • Sisarma River
  • Bujhda River

Characteristics:

• Nehru Garden: A picturesque garden located on one of the islands in Fateh Sagar, accessible by boat and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Telescope and Solar Observatory: Located on the banks of the lake, these facilities allow for astronomical observation and are important scientific landmarks in Udaipur.
• Virtual Fish Aquarium: This tourist attraction adds modern entertainment to the scenic natural beauty of the lake.

RANG SAGAR LAKE

• Location: Rang Sagar is another freshwater lake located in Udaipur.
• Connectivity: It is connected to Pichhola Lake and Swaroop Sagar, forming part of the intricate water system that helps manage and distribute water across Udaipur’s interconnected lakes.

UDAI SAGAR LAKE

• Location: Udai Sagar Lake is situated on the Ayed River, also known as the Berach River after it merges into Udai Sagar. The lake plays a vital role in maintaining the water supply for Udaipur.
• Historical Construction: The lake was built by Maharana Udai Singh between 1559 and 1564 AD. Maharana Udai Singh is also the founder of Udaipur, making the lake an integral part of Udaipur’s historical and urban planning.

DOODH TALAI

• Location: Doodh Talai is a freshwater lake located in Udaipur.

BADI LAKE/JANA SAGAR

• Location: Badi Lake, also known as Jana Sagar, is another freshwater lake situated in Udaipur.

RAJSAMAND LAKE

• Construction: Rajsamand Lake was constructed by Maharana Raj Singh between the years 1662 and 1676 AD. It serves as a crucial historical site within the region.
• River: The lake is fed by the Gomati River, contributing to its freshwater supply and maintaining water levels.

Characteristics of Rajsamand Lake:

1. Nau Choki Pal: The northern part of Rajsamand Lake is called Nau Choki Pal. This section is significant for its historical and cultural relevance.
2. Historical Importance: Rajsamand Lake is notable as it is considered the first lake in India (built in 1662) specifically for famine relief, showcasing the proactive measures taken by rulers to address water scarcity during drought conditions.
3. Religious Sites: Several religious places are located near the lake:
   • Dwarkadhish Temple
   • Ghevar Mata Temple
4. Sundial: The sundial, depicted in the diagram, is a historical timekeeping device that was often used in royal gardens and estates. Its presence indicates the lake’s historical significance and the sophistication of time measurement techniques used during the era.
5. Raj Prashasti: This refers to a rock inscription that records historical events related to the lake. It was written by Ranchod Bhat Telang and is inscribed in Sanskrit, highlighting the literary and cultural richness of the period.
6. Sundial Remains: The remains of a sundial have been discovered on the banks of Rajsamand Lake, indicating its use as a timekeeping instrument, which adds another layer to the lake’s historical importance.

The diagram illustrates key features of Rajsamand Lake:

1. Geographical Features:
   • Aravalli Hills: These hills form the backdrop of Rajsamand Lake, contributing to its scenic beauty and ecological significance.
2. Canal System:
   • The diagram shows the connection of Gomati River flowing into the lake, which is crucial for its water supply.
3. Structural Elements:
   • Noo Choki Pal: This feature is depicted in the diagram and refers to the structure associated with the lake, possibly a water management or observation system.
   • Temple Symbols: The locations of Dwarkadhish Temple and Ghevar Mata Temple are marked, signifying their importance as religious and cultural sites.

NANDSAMAND LAKE

• Location: Nandsamand Lake is a freshwater lake located in Rajsamand.
• Community Contribution: A significant aspect of Nandsamand Lake is that it was constructed with the efforts of about 60,000 people. This reflects the community’s commitment and involvement in managing local water resources, showcasing the importance of collective efforts in the region.

NAKKI LAKE

• Type: Nakki Lake is categorized as a crater lake, formed in volcanic regions.
• Cultural Significance: According to local folk proverbs, it is said that the lake is made of nails, highlighting the cultural narratives and beliefs that enrich the lake’s history.

Geographical Features:

• Height and Depth: Nakki Lake is situated at a height of 1200 meters above sea level and has a maximum depth of 35 meters, making it the highest and deepest lake in Rajasthan.
• Sunset Point: The lake features a Sunset Point, a popular tourist attraction that offers picturesque views, particularly during sunset.

Cultural Practices:

• Bones Discharge: The Garasiya tribe is known for discharging the bones of their deceased into this lake, which holds significant cultural and ritual importance.
• Seasonal Freezing: Nakki Lake is unique in that it is the only lake in Rajasthan that freezes during winter, providing a rare sight in the region’s typically warm climate.

The diagram provided illustrates the following features of Nakki Lake:

1. Lake Profile: The shape of Nakki Lake is depicted, showing its depth and the overall topography.
2. Measurements:
   • The deepest part of the lake is marked at 35 meters.
   • The overall height of the lake is specified as 1200 meters, indicating its elevation.
3. Sunset Point: The diagram highlights the popular tourist attraction known as Sunset Point, which is a favored location for visitors looking to experience the scenic beauty of the lake during sunset.
4. Cultural Practices: The reference to the Garasiya tribe illustrates the cultural practices associated with the lake, specifically the ritual of discharging bones into the water, which connects to the local traditions surrounding death and remembrance.
5. Surrounding Rock Formations: Various rock formations surrounding Nakki Lake are named, which are landmarks for visitors and add to the geological interest of the area.

Surrounding Rock Formations: The banks of Nakki Lake are characterized by various rock formations. These rock formations enhance the scenic beauty of the lake and provide opportunities for exploration and adventure tourism.

• Tad Rock
• Nun Rock
• Nandi Rock
• Horn Rock

AANASAGAR LAKE

• Location: Aanasagar Lake is located in Ajmer and was constructed by Arnoraj Chauhan between 1136 and 1137 AD.
• River: The lake is fed by the Bandi River.
• Historical Significance: The lake was constructed by Arnoraj Chauhan during the period of 1136 to 1137 AD. This historical context adds depth to its significance as a man-made reservoir in the region.
• Surrounding Areas: The lake features landscaped gardens like Daulat Bagh or Shubash Park, enhancing its recreational value for visitors.
• Cultural Significance: Aanasagar Lake is noted for its historical significance as a man-made water body constructed to alleviate water scarcity in the region.

The geographical layout of Aanasagar Lake and its relation to the Bandi River and surrounding features, including Daulat Bagh or Shubash Park and Jahangir.

FOY SAGAR

• Location: Foy Sagar is a freshwater lake located in Ajmer.
• Construction: The lake was constructed by an engineer named Foy between 1891 and 1892 AD.

Key Features:

• River: Like Aanasagar, Foy Sagar is also fed by the Bandi River.
• Famine Relief: It is recognized as the second famine relief lake of Rajasthan, following Rajsamand Lake. This highlights its importance in water management during periods of drought.

PUSHKAR LAKE

• Type: Pushkar Lake is classified as a crater lake, also known as a volcanic lake.
• Pushkar Lake is known by various names, including:
• Panchva Tirth
• Tirthraj
• Tirtho ka Mama
• Konkan Tirgh
• Crescent Shape Lake
• Bawan (52) Ghat Lake

Key Features:

• Largest Natural Lake: Pushkar Lake is recognized as the largest natural freshwater lake in Rajasthan, holding cultural and ecological significance.
• Religious Importance: Pushkar is regarded as the most holy lake in Rajasthan, making it a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus. The lake is surrounded by many temples and ghats that are essential for religious rituals.

Cultural Events:

• Kartik Purnima Fair: A major fair is organized on the banks of Pushkar Lake during Kartik Purnima, called “Rangila Mela of Rajasthan”. This event attracts pilgrims and tourists alike.
• Lighting of Lamps: Lamps are traditionally lit on the lake during Kartik Purnima, enhancing the lake’s spiritual ambiance and attracting visitors for this beautiful sight.

The diagram illustrates the layout and features of Pushkar Lake:

1. Shape of the Lake: The diagram represents the crescent shape of Pushkar Lake, a characteristic feature that is often noted in its geography.
2. Temple of Brahma: The Temple of Brahma, located at the southern end of the lake, is a significant landmark. It is one of the few temples dedicated to Lord Brahma in India and attracts many devotees and tourists.
3. Deepdan: The Deepdan symbol indicates a place where lamps are lit as part of religious rituals. This practice is common during auspicious occasions and festivals, symbolizing the removal of darkness and the celebration of light.
4. Surrounding Structures: The squares marked around the lake likely represent the ghats or steps leading to the water. These ghats are essential for pilgrims to perform their rituals, including bathing and immersing offerings.

KAYLANA LAKE

• Location: Kaylana Lake, also known as Sir Pratap Sagar, is a freshwater lake located in Jodhpur.
• Construction: The lake was constructed under the reign of Sir Pratap Singh in 1872 AD. It was built primarily to provide a reliable source of water for the region.

Characteristics:

• Significance: Kaylana Lake is notable for being the only lake in Rajasthan that is connected to the Indira Gandhi Canal Project (IGNP). This canal system plays a crucial role in supplying water to arid regions of Rajasthan.
• Water Sources: The lake receives water through various channels connected to the Beas River. This connection enhances the water supply for both irrigation and domestic use in the surrounding areas.

The diagram illustrates the following features related to Kaylana Lake:

1. Geographical Layout: The diagram provides a map-like representation of Rajasthan, indicating the location of Kaylana Lake within the state.
2. Connections:
   • The IGNP Canal is depicted, showing how it connects to Kaylana Lake and illustrating its significance in the region’s water management.
   • Water flows from the Harike area and the Satlej River, highlighting the lake’s integration into the larger river system.
3. Infrastructure: The Rajeev Gandhi Lift is mentioned, which suggests the use of lift irrigation technology to enhance the efficiency of water distribution from the lake to agricultural fields in the area.

KOLAYAT LAKE

• Location: Kolayat Lake is situated in Bikaner. It is considered a significant freshwater lake in the region.
• Mythological Significance: The lake is believed to have been created by Kapil Muni for the liberation of his mother, which adds a layer of mythological importance to the site.

Cultural Aspects:

• Kartik Purnima Fair: A fair is organized along Kolayat Lake on Kartik Purnima, similar to the celebrations at Pushkar Lake. During this time, lamps are lit along the lake, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with devotion and celebration.
• Community Participation: It is noted that the Charan caste does not visit this lake, indicating specific social or cultural practices associated with the lake.
• Alternate Name: Kolayat Lake is also referred to as Maru Udyan or Oasis, highlighting its importance as a source of water in the arid environment of Bikaner.

GUJNER LAKE

• Location: Gujner Lake is another freshwater lake located in Bikaner.
• Descriptive Name: This lake is known as “the clean mirror of water,” which reflects its clarity and purity. This description emphasizes the lake’s aesthetic qualities and its importance as a scenic spot.

SILISERH LAKE (ALWAR)

• Location: Siliserh Lake is located in Alwar, Rajasthan.
• Significance:

• Tourism and Recreation: The lake is part of the “Golden Triangle” tourism circuit, which includes major cities like Jaipur, Delhi, and Agra. This location makes it a popular destination for tourists seeking natural beauty and relaxation.
• Nickname: Siliserh Lake is also known as “Nandan Kanan” of Rajasthan, highlighting its lush surroundings and serene environment that attract nature lovers.

The diagram illustrates the following features of Siliserh Lake:

1. RTDC: The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) is indicated in the diagram, suggesting that the lake is a recognized tourist destination managed for visitor convenience and amenities.
2. Lake Profile: The diagram visually depicts the shape of Siliserh Lake and its natural setting, emphasizing the surrounding hills which enhance the scenic value of the lake.

MAP OVERVIEW

The map of Rajasthan indicates the locations of several important lakes across the state. Below are some key lakes and their characteristics:

1. Budda Johad
2. Sur Sagar
3. Anup Sagar
4. Mawtha Lake and Mansagar
5. Ram Sagar
6. Talab Shahi
7. Mansarova or Kadla Lake
8. Kanak Sagar or Duwari Dam
9. Amarsagar
10. Gadisir Bujh Lake

These lakes serve various purposes, including irrigation, drinking water supply, and recreation, and they contribute significantly to the local ecology and economy.

Other Lakes of Rajasthan

This table displays the lake names, their locations, and any specific significance associated with each lake in Rajasthan.

Famous Wells in Rajasthan

Famous Ponds in Rajasthan

Stepwells of Rajasthan

National Lake Conservation Plan

The National Lake Conservation Plan was launched by the Central Government on 1st April 2016. This initiative aims to conserve and manage lakes across India, addressing pollution, degradation, and sustainable use of lake resources.

• Funding Ratio: The cooperation between the Central and State Governments is structured as follows:

• • Central Government: 60%
  • State Government: 40%
• The lakes included in this program are:
• • Pichola Lake
  • Fatehsagar Lake
  • Anasagar Lake
  • Pushkar Lake
  • Nakki Lake

These lakes have been prioritized for conservation efforts due to their ecological, cultural, and economic significance.