Bhuj: In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Gujarat, the Kutch district administration has brought 910 lakes across 281 villages onto official revenue records, enabling systematic water conservation, storage, and development works in the semi-arid region where water scarcity remains a critical concern.

Launched three months ago, the campaign focused on identifying previously unrecorded lakes and water bodies, scientifically measuring their land area, and granting them formal legal status to prevent future disputes and encroachments. The exercise covered all 10 talukas of Kutch, creating an estimated 5,691 acres of designated lake land for drinking water, agriculture, and livestock needs.

According to officials, the lakes include 313 in Bhuj, 25 in Mundra, 38 in Mandvi, 163 in Nakhatrana, 87 in Abdasa, 132 in Anjar, 78 in Bhachau, 18 in Rapar, 45 in Lakhpat, and 11 in Gandhidham. In Bhuj city alone, orders have been issued for the creation of 21 lakes, which are now being handed over to relevant authorities for maintenance and development.

The administration ensured scientific measurement by the District Inspector Land Records (DILR) before issuing final lake notifications, a move expected to curb illegal occupation and safeguard lake boundaries in the long term. Several lakes located on grazing land have also been identified and transferred to the district panchayat to enable protection and community-based use.

With official status now granted, the lakes will be eligible for restoration, beautification, and water storage works under schemes such as Sujalam Sufalam Yojana and Amrit Sarovar, alongside planned tree plantation by the Forest Department. Officials say the initiative is expected to improve groundwater levels, reduce salinity, enhance irrigation and drinking water quality, and support biodiversity and livestock, while also lowering long-term government spending on water harvesting and pipeline infrastructure.

The district administration believes the large-scale lake conservation drive will strengthen Kutch’s micro-climate resilience, expand agricultural productivity, and create sustainable water sources for future generations—marking a significant environmental and water-management milestone for Gujarat. DeshGujarat