RIVERS OF RAJASTHAN: A CARTOGRAPHIC PRESENTATION AND ASSESSMENT OF THEIR CONDITION

Abstract

Abstract: Based on the interpretation of all the Survey of India topographical sheets of Rajasthan on 1:50,000 scale and Google Earth Images, basin wise a total of 455 rivers are identified and mapped and flow charts are prepared. Basin wise water resources development & planning documents are consulted to find out their characteristics, problems and potentials. Chambal, Mahi and Luni basins have good network of rivers. A large number of small rivers/nallah originating from low hills and uplands, are lost in sandy/alluvial plains. Overall unwarranted human activities are sole responsible for deterioration of river condition. Encroachment over river bed for agriculture and habitation is common where river passes through alluvium or sandy plain. This happened particularly in Sabi, Banganga, Shekhawati and Ruparail basins. Here large stretches of river have lost their existence. Other menace are: river sand mining; discharge of sewage and industrial effluents; dumping mining waste and slurry of marble, sandstone and granite processing units. Large scale mining activities have blocked natural drainage system and reduced free flow of rainwater in rivers. Suggestions are given to improve the river condition and increase water yield.