Archive · 7 Nov 2025
Photographer Builds Ponds, Reviving Rajasthan's Thirsty Wildlife
A photographer named Sharvan noticed animals in Rajasthan's desert struggling to find water.
He remembered seeing traditional small ponds called 'khailis' that used to hold water.
So, he and his friends built one, making it better by using cement so less water would disappear.
This pond became a drinking spot for deer, birds, and other animals.
Other people saw how well it worked and wanted to build them too!
Sharvan's project grew, and with the help of many people donating even just a little bit of money each day, they've helped build over 130 ponds.
These ponds are now helping animals survive the hot, dry weather and making the desert a better home for them.
Sharvan hopes this will also help nature and people live better together.
Wildlife photographer Sharvan Patel initiated a project in 2022 to build ponds in Rajasthan after witnessing severe water scarcity affecting wildlife.
The ponds are constructed using traditional methods enhanced with cement lining to minimize water loss and maintain a cooler temperature.
Patel's efforts, initially a personal project, inspired communities to build over 100 additional ponds, bringing the total to over 130.
The initiative is sustained through crowd-funded efforts, notably a 'One Rupee Per Day' campaign, to cover costs like water tankers during dry seasons.
The ponds have successfully provided a crucial water source for diverse wildlife, including blackbucks, peacocks, and migratory birds, transforming dry areas into havens.
- Who
- Wildlife photographer Sharvan Patel and inspired communities
- What
- Initiated a project to build ponds and inspired others to build over 130 ponds to provide water for wildlife.
- When
- Started in 2022
- Where
- Rajasthan, India (including Tal Chappar Sanctuary area and surrounding villages)
- Why
- To combat water scarcity and provide a vital water source for wildlife suffering from extreme heat and drought.
Impact of Shepherds
Wildlife Photographer's Perspective
Water Source Conflict
Impact of Shepherds
Shepherds sometimes drive their goats into the ponds, muddying the water and driving away wild deer.
Wildlife Photographer's Perspective
Despite challenges like shepherds' herds, the positive impact on wildlife, such as peacocks and vultures, makes the effort worthwhile.
- Initiator
- Sharvan Patel, Wildlife Photographer
- Location
- Rajasthan, India
- Start Year
- 2022
- Total Ponds (Initiated/Inspired)
- Over 130
- Pond Construction
- Traditional methods (khailis) with cement lining to reduce seepage and maintain water temperature.
- Funding Model
- Crowd-funded through initiatives like 'One Rupee Per Day' campaign and online awareness.
- Water Source During Dry Season
- Water tankers (costly, sourced from reservoirs 20-25 km away)