The Kutch district administration has successfully documented 910 lakes in 281 villages to enhance conservation efforts and water management in Gujarat’s largest and water-stressed region. Led by Collector Anand Patel, this initiative was completed in just three months, covering all 10 talukas of the district. Through precise land measurement and official revenue orders, approximately 5,691 acres of land linked to these lakes have been officially recognized.
Kutch, known for its semi-arid climate, faces significant water needs for drinking, agriculture, and livestock. Despite the presence of numerous lakes, many lacked legal recognition and recorded areas in revenue documents, hindering planned conservation and development work. To address this, the district administration launched a focused campaign to identify and document these lakes, ensuring a structured approach to their preservation.
Utilizing modern survey techniques, the District Inspector of Land Records (DILR) played a crucial role in this process, aiding in preventing future disputes, encroachments, and unauthorized use of lake areas. Notably, Bhuj taluka recorded 313 lakes, Nakhatrana 163, Anjar 132, Abdasa 87, Bhachau 78, Lakhpat 45, Mandvi 38, Mundra 25, Rapar 18, and Gandhidham 11, totaling 910 lakes across the district.
In Bhuj city, 21 lakes have received official recognition, with the transfer process to relevant authorities finalized. Lakes situated on grazing lands have been reported to the district panchayat for protection and management under local self-government bodies. Collector Anand Patel emphasized that by formalizing these lakes in revenue records, they can now benefit from government schemes like Sujalam Sufalam Yojana and Amrit Sarovar, aiding in groundwater recharge and local water level improvements.
The forest department plans to conduct plantation activities around the lakes, while the irrigation department intends to undertake structured projects. This comprehensive effort marks a significant step in Gujarat towards recognizing lake lands, establishing a clear administrative framework for sustainable water resource management in Kutch.
