Solutions from the Past

Sometimes, the present becomes cumbersome and the future looks bleak. In such moments, it is always good to revisit the past and learn from the mistakes and projects of those before us to fix the crisis that lies ahead of us.

Agrasen ki Baoli. Image source: Native Planet

It'll be summertime again, and the water woes will plague us once more. Despite having technology, we've failed to find a concrete solution to the water crisis.

It's not as though water shortages never occurred in the past. If anything, transporting water to arid places was a herculean task in the old days. However, the state was prepared to tackle the water crisis through what we now call the 'Traditional Water Systems'.

Delhi is perhaps the only Indian city that can boast of having a centuries-old water management system. The traditional water systems emerged from Delhi's unique geography. From Agrasen Ki Baoli to the Gadaipur Bandh, the water systems of Delhi aided in transporting water to various parts of the region.

There were streams, ponds, baolis, well, and of course- the Yamuna River in Delhi. Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage says there were about 800 water bodies in Delhi. Since the systems were interconnected, the well-being of one determined the other's health.

The rocky areas of Delhi had natural depressions where water was stored, and in areas such as Neela Hauz, a low wall was built across the stream to hold up the water.

The central part of the city had softer soil and more abundance of groundwater. Therefore, dug wells became prominent in those places. There was a time when groundwater could be found at a depth of 60 feet. However, as the city expanded and tube wells replaced dug wells, the level sunk to 150 feet.

What's unfortunate is that Delhi had a large network of streams that have now become sewage channels. Early records mention a lake near Dwarka it may have probably been the Najafgarh lake. All water bodies joined the Yamuna river. However, the sorry state of the river hardly makes one believe that there was a time when rulers diverted the waters of this massive river to secure their settlements.

You may not be aware, but a seasonal stream is known as the Sahibi River originating from the Sirmaur Hills once brought rainwater to Delhi. However, it is nothing more than a sewage canal now, popularly known as the Najafgarh Drain.

Some may underestimate their roles, but seasonal rivers brought monsoon waters to different parts of Delhi and recharged the baolis and wells.

Delhi's several invaders laid down a water management system to help them settle their subjects. Even though they didn't have the noblest intentions when they arrived, their water management skills were noteworthy.

The traditional water systems of Delhi showed an interconnectedness and highlighted how quickly systems collapse if neglected. While modernity is inevitable and may seem like a boon, it presents its set of challenges that often leave authorities in a twist. In such cases, it is best to go back and learn from the rulers who developed the centuries-old water traditions of Delhi.

Antique Map of Delhi showing the Najafgarh jheel and Sahibi. Image source: The Print