In the heart of Devbhumi Uttarakhand, the land of gods, lies a remarkable yet lesser-known traditional water harvesting system, ‘Naulas’. The literal meaning of ‘Naula’ is groundwater spring. Naulas are found predominantly in the villages of the Kumaon region. Naulas are the ancient water structures, who sustained communities for centuries. Which represents a deep harmony between nature, tradition and sustainable living.
These structures are like puzzles made of stones. They’re built in a way that collects and stores rainwater efficiently.
– Saurabh Kanu from wander Sky
The Ingenious Designs Of Naulas
Naulas are small, stone-lined reservoirs that collect and store water from natural springs. Built with remarkable precision, these structures resemble four-sided stepped wells made of carefully arranged stones. Their underground construction helps preserve water by minimizing evaporation and preventing contamination. Though their primary purpose is to capture and store groundwater. But Naulas serve a far greater role in the region—providing an unwavering source of drinking water despite the geographical and climatic challenges of the Himalayas.
The design of Naulas is not merely functional but it is also to reflect deep cultural and spiritual significance. The very name Kumaon traces its origins to Kurvanchal, meaning the land of Kurmavatar—the tortoise incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This influence is evident in the intricate carvings and sculptures found in many Naulas, where Lord Vishnu is often depicted, reinforcing the sacredness of these structures.
The Natural Filtration Process
Water in Naulas is naturally purified as it percolates through layers of rock and soil. This natural filtration enhances its mineral content, making it one of the purest sources of drinking water in the region.
It is as good as the mineral water.
– Pradeep Rastogi (School teacher from Aarohi Bal sansar)
However, due to the region’s geological composition, water from some Naulas contains a high concentration of calcium. Long-term consumption of excess calcium can lead to kidney stones, a concern that Himalayan communities have addressed with traditional wisdom. Storing Naula water in copper matkas for at least six hours allows calcium to settle which makes it safer for consumption. This practice, rooted in ancient knowledge, continues in many households today.
Culture And Tradition
Naulas are not just water sources; they are deeply revered as sacred spaces. Their maintenance is a community responsibility, upheld with the same devotion as temple upkeep. Many Naulas are built near temples or sacred groves, reinforcing the cultural belief that water is divine and must be protected.
A fascinating local belief surrounds Naulas: they are said to be guarded by a mystical red snake. If a Naula falls into neglect, the snake appears, signaling the community that it requires cleaning and maintenance. This belief has long ensured that Naulas remain well preserved.
Traditional Rituals And Social Practices
Naulas have been central to community traditions and customs. Caste-based segregation once dictated that different Naulas be used by different communities. However, a few common Naulas, known as Sanyukta Sanchay, were open to all.
Marriage rituals: A newlywed couple must visit the Naula. The groom offers his wedding safa (headgear) to the Naula as a symbol of seeking its protection, while the bride draws water to serve the family, marking her first act of service in her new home.
Hygiene and cleanliness: The community collectively cleans common Naulas every month to maintain water purity.
While some of these customs have faded over time, others persist in the more remote villages.
Challenges And The Need For Conservation
Modernization, deforestation, and climate change have severely impacted Naulas, the traditional water harvesting structures of Uttarakhand. As underground water levels continue to decline, many Naulas have dried up completely, while others are left neglected due to the shift towards piped water supply systems.
With the introduction of distributed water supply through pipelines, communities have developed a dependency on these modern systems, reducing their reliance on Naulas. As a result, these once-vital water sources are now rarely maintained, and their significance in daily life has diminished. In many villages, Naulas are no longer seen as essential resources but are instead used as resting spots in the summer for their naturally cool surroundings.
However, some remote villages still depend on Naulas for their daily water needs, especially in areas where piped water systems are unreliable or unavailable. Despite this, the traditional knowledge and skills required to build and maintain these structures are fading, leading to further deterioration. The cultural and ecological role of Naulas, once deeply integrated into the fabric of rural life, is slowly being forgotten. If not revived and protected, these historical water sources may be lost entirely, along with the wisdom of sustainable water management that has supported mountain communities for generations.
Conservation And Restoration Projects
Despite these challenges, efforts to revive Naulas are gaining momentum. Local communities and organizations like hans foundation and CHIRAG (Central Himalyan Rural Action Group) are working to restore and maintain these traditional water sources. The Hans Foundation’s natural spring water project in partnership with CHIRAG in Uttarakhand is called Hans Jal Dhara which was initiated in 2016. The project focuses on providing clean drinking water to remote, hilly communities in the region by recharging and managing natural springs through community participation. The project has implemented various water supply schemes, including gravity-fed systems, solar-powered pumps, and tube wells. The implementation strategies are designed specifically according to the unique geographical challenges of Uttarakhand’s hilly terrains.
A key focus is on empowering local communities to manage and sustain water resources, ensuring long-term water security in rural areas. Therefore, central to the project’s success are the Village Water and Sanitation Committees (VWSCs). In which, local groups trained to manage and maintain the water systems, ensuring the initiative’s sustainability. It also empowers communities to take charge of their water resources. Naulas are more than ancient water structures—they are symbols of Kumaoni heritage, ecological wisdom, and sustainable living.
Conclusion
Naulas are not just water sources; they are a symbol of the deep connection between nature, culture, and sustainability. These ancient structures reflect the wisdom of generations who understood the importance of water conservation and lived in harmony with their environment. Their continued survival depends on recognizing their value, preserving traditional knowledge, and incorporating modern conservation efforts. In a world struggling with water scarcity, Naulas stand as timeless reminders of how communities can live in harmony with nature.
The ongoing conservation efforts, community participation, and initiatives like Hans Jal Dhara offer hope for a future. Where Naulas continue to serve mountain communities, bridging the past with the present. By embracing both traditional wisdom and modern solutions, we can ensure that these remarkable water systems remain a vital part of Uttarakhand’s landscape for generations to come.
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