12. A Case Study On-Tanks of Fatehwadi Project a Step towards Sustainable Development in Rural Area Patel M.S., Sarvaiya U.K. (NAVNIRMAN, January-December 2002, pp. 110). Abstract Water is most important of five natural elements existing in the nature. Life on the earth flourished only due to water and life on other planets are nonexistent due to its absence, the study done on mars planet firmly supports this fact. Man's quest for water is visible since primitive ages, and the history of tanks is as old as mankind. Life in villages revolves around tanks, tanks are strengthening their social fabric, and privately owning the tanks in some parts of India formed the social status symbol. Scriptures found contains its mention, even excavation of old civilizations carries the remains of tanks. Fatehwadi Project derives its water for irrigation from historical river SABARMATI, on the bank of this river world famous Sabarmati Ashram is situated (Ahmedabad city) established by the Father of the Nation MAHATMA GANDHI and patronised by various freedom fighters. Fatehwadi Project finds its origin from the cluster of small tanks to its present shape all set to irrigate 76,000 ha. Government has adopted all possible measures to revive the tanks, increase its capacity, supplement the storage by finding additional sources of water and developing the watersheds. Water is being fed in the tanks to replenish the shortage. Farmers are being trained for the new challenges. Tank is being renovated and system of canals is being modernized by providing lining. Results are encouraging. Tanks are all set to be a tool for sustainable development in rural area, equally contributing toward village economy, social development, its micro-climate, and environment. Top Keywords Water, Mars, Primitive, Social, Sabarmati, Sustainable. Top |