WATER RESOURCES

Gir forms the catchments of seven perennial rivers viz. the Hiran, the Saraswati, the Datardi, the Shingoda, the Machhundri, the Ghodavadi and the Raval. Northern aspect of northern ridges forms the catchments of Shetrunji river flowing outside the sanctuary area. All these major rivers of Gir have perennial water supply except during severe drought. During peak summer, surface water for wild animals is available at only abut 300 water points. In order to tap water resources, four dams have been constructed along the Hiran, the Machhundri, the Raval and the Shingoda respectively. The total catchments area of these 4 reservoir is 820 sq. km while water from rest of the areas remain untapped.

During droughts, surface water is not available at majority of these points. Water scarcity is a serious problem in Eastern part of the Gir during droughts. Ensuring the availability of water during peak summer is one of the major tasks of the Forest Department staff.