Delhi's baolis or step wells known for their ornate design and striking beauty lay in ruins today, but what disturbs the environmentalists more is the loss of traditional knowledge-based system of conservation which could have proved a lifeline for the city suffering from water crisis.
"Most of us look at baolis as tourist attractions, but we fail to understand the importance of such structures in conserving water and showing us the path to adopt traditional knowledge systems as a solution to our environmental concerns," Rashmi Nair, a Delhi-based environmental activist, said.
Baolis, commonly found in the western part of India, are wells or ponds in which water may be reached by descending a set of steps. Seen as structures with high architectural value and earthquake resistant features, baolis are also hailed for their sulphur-rich water having skin healing properties.
Despite the structures being an asset for environment, less seems to have been done for their revival.
"Baolis were an important source of water in ancient times but with the coming in of tube wells and piped water supply, the step well structures lost their relevance of being the only source of water.
"The crucial factor in reviving the baolis of the city lies in the replenishment of groundwater levels," says R M Bhardawaj, senior scientist of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Bharadwaj states that a number of measures need to be taken before the age old baolis can be revived.
"We need to work on a system that ensures sustainability of the water table. The idea of refilling the baolis is close to impossible in the cities where water demands are scaling new heights every day. The only way out is increasing the level of sub-surface water," he added.
