My jaunt around Abu these last few days

The heat has been really oppressive this last fortnight and I could not make up my mind to brave the direct scorching heat of the summer sun. I did venture out after 6 pm. I wanted to see how the water holes were fairing this summer, the situation is grim , all water bodies that serve as watering spots for the animals have run bone dry ,there is just enough water in one or two spots to last for may be another 10 days. The pictures I’m posting will give you an idea of what the bleak future for the wild animals will be in another few weeks if the monsoons are delayed.

The water level at the Trevor Tank in the heart of the sanctuary is only 50%

Another few days to go before the Dhoondai stream runs dry

The Minni Nakki lake bone dry

The lake on the way to Achalgarh Bone dry

The minni Nakki Lake "Some Lake"

The Jawai Catchement area on the way to Guru shaker

Another few days to go and a village with depleated water supply

The Nakki lake a sight for sore eyes

A lake with all its ribs exposed

Tankers waiting in line at Oria

Another lot at another fuitful water well Oria

Mount Abu Mini Nakki Lake Location

Nakki Lake Location Mt Abu

Mini Nakki Lake

I’ve had quite a few queries as to the location of Mini Nakki Lake hence I’ve decided to enlighten and bring those of you who left Abu eons ago up to date. This artificial lake came up as a result of famines that struck this state (Rajasthan) over the years, the authorities to alleviate the plight of the farmers and the labour class began this project some 25 years ago. The work under the tenure of Collector Brandon while here in Sirohi saw its completion.
The labours who worked on the project were compensated with grain to help them tide over the drought period. Not a bad deal it’s like a drowning man grabbing for a straw. Today this water body can be seen when one is driving up the road to Guru Shikhar, the snap above was taken from a vantage point a half a Km or so from the Oriya check post, yea they now have a check post outside both Oriya and Trevor’s Tank. I presume they will also have a check post in place once the new road is completed. The water of this catchment is pretty clean only hope it remains this way after the road becomes operational , humans are humans and are the most unpredictable species . I think I’ll go down there in a day or so and put up a sign “Spare this water Body” it’s the drinking water of the animals, please dispose off your litter on the way out at the dumps.