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Thar Desert Case Study

What are the opportunities and challenges to economic development in the Thar Desert?

The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is located in northwest India and stretches into Pakistan. It covers 200,000 square kilometres and is the most densely populated desert in the world. The desert forms a natural boundary between India and Pakistan.

A map to show the location of the Thar Desert in India

Development opportunities in the Thar Desert

Mineral extraction in the Thar Desert

Many minerals are extracted from the ground in the Thar Desert including:

• limestone for producing steel and cement;
• marble, used in construction;
• phosphorite used in fertiliser and chemicals;
• feldspar, used in ceramics;
• gypsum, used in plaster and cement.

Energy in the Thar Desert

A range of renewable and non-renewable energy resources are exploited in the Thar Desert. Renewable energy resources include wind and solar energy. At Jaisalmer, 75 wind turbines are generating 60MW of electricity. Solar energy is being used in Bhaleri to power water treatment works. Due to the long hours of sunshine, there is massive potential in the generation of solar energy.

Farming in the Thar Desert

Most farming in the Thar Desert is subsistence which means farmers produce enough food for them and their families to eat. Rearing animals, growing crops and foraging for fruit and berries are common subsistence farming approaches in the Thar Desert.

The Indira Gandhi canal has enabled the irrigation of 3500k㎡ of land for the commercial production of wheat, cotton and maize.

Tourism in the Thar Desert

Tourism in the Thar Desert has increased recently, mainly from Pakistan. Desert safaris are popular as is ecotourism including camel treks.

Camels in the Thar Desert

Development challenges in the Thar Desert

Hot deserts are hostile, remote and challenging environments for development.

Water supply

Precipitation levels are in the Thar Desert are very low, between 120-240mm, and evaporation rates are high. Stable water supplies are essential for economic development. Water is traditionally stored in natural ponds known as tobas and are used by farmers in remote locations.

A toba in the Thar Desert

The Indira Gandhi canal was constructed to provide irrigation and drinking water in 1958.

Many settlements have formed along rivers due to the availability of fresh water. However, climate change could lead to river levels being lower which will lead to water scarcity.

Inaccessibility

Covering 200,000k㎡, The Thar Desert is vast. Despite having the highest desert population density in the world, it has a limited road network.

Tarmac can melt in the hot temperatures, and sand can easily blow over roads.

Extreme Temperatures

Temperatures can exceed 50°C in the Thar Desert which makes it very challenging to for people, such as farmers, to work outside. High temperatures lead to rapid evaporation and a shortage of water.

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Case Study: The Thar Desert - Challenges

Challenges developing the thar desert.

There are a number of challenges of developing the Thar Desert environment. The challenges include:

Extreme temperatures

• The average temperature is very high in the Thar desert.
• Water rapidly evaporates at high temperatures.
• The temperatures are hard for workers to work in.

Water supply

• The Thar Desert has low rainfall and high evaporation.
• Low rainfall and high evaporation lead to poor water security.

Inaccessibility

• The roads in the Thar Desert become covered with sand and crack due to the heat.

1 Geography Skills

1.1 Mapping

1.1.1 Map Making

1.1.2 OS Maps

1.1.3 Grid References

1.1.4 Contour Lines

1.1.5 Symbols, Scale and Distance

1.1.6 Directions on Maps

1.1.7 Describing Routes

1.1.8 Map Projections

1.1.9 Aerial & Satellite Images

1.1.10 Using Maps to Make Decisions

1.2 Geographical Information Systems

1.2.1 Geographical Information Systems

1.2.2 How do Geographical Information Systems Work?

1.2.3 Using Geographical Information Systems

1.2.4 End of Topic Test - Geography Skills

2 Geology of the UK

2.1 The UK's Rocks

2.1.1 The UK's Main Rock Types

2.1.2 The UK's Landscape

2.1.3 Using Rocks

2.1.4 Weathering

2.2 Case Study: The Peak District

2.2.1 The Peak District

2.2.2 Limestone Landforms

2.2.3 Quarrying

3 Geography of the World

3.1 Geography of America & Europe

3.1.1 North America

3.1.2 South America

3.1.3 Europe

3.1.4 The European Union

3.1.5 The Continents

3.1.6 The Oceans

3.1.7 Longitude

3.1.8 Latitude

3.1.9 End of Topic Test - Geography of the World

4 Development

4.1 Development

4.1.1 Classifying Development

4.1.3 Evaluation of GDP

4.1.4 The Human Development Index

4.1.5 Population Structure

4.1.6 Developing Countries

4.1.7 Emerging Countries

4.1.8 Developed Countries

4.1.9 Comparing Development

4.2 Uneven Development

4.2.1 Consequences of Uneven Development

4.2.2 Physical Factors Affecting Development

4.2.3 Historic Factors Affecting Development

4.2.4 Human & Social Factors Affecting Development

4.2.5 Breaking Out of the Poverty Cycle

4.3 Case Study: Democratic Republic of Congo

4.3.1 The DRC: An Overview

4.3.2 Political & Social Factors Affecting Development

4.3.3 Environmental Factors Affecting the DRC

4.3.4 The DRC: Aid

4.3.5 The Pros & Cons of Aid in DRC

4.3.6 Top-Down vs Bottom-Up in DRC

4.3.7 The DRC: Comparison with the UK

4.3.8 The DRC: Against Malaria Foundation

4.4 Case Study: Nigeria

4.4.1 The Importance & Development of Nigeria

4.4.2 Nigeria's Relationships with the Rest of the World

4.4.3 Urban Growth in Lagos

4.4.4 Population Growth in Lagos

4.4.5 Factors influencing Nigeria's Growth

4.4.6 Nigeria: Comparison with the UK

5 Weather & Climate

5.1 Weather

5.1.1 Weather & Climate

5.1.2 Components of Weather

5.1.3 Temperature

5.1.4 Sunshine, Humidity & Air Pressure

5.1.5 Cloud Cover

5.1.6 Precipitation

5.1.7 Convectional Precipitation

5.1.8 Frontal Precipitation

5.1.9 Relief or Orographic Precipitation

5.1.10 Wind

5.1.11 Extreme Wind

5.1.12 Recording the Weather

5.1.13 Extreme Weather

5.2 Climate

5.2.1 Climate of the British Isles

5.2.2 Comparing Weather & Climate London

5.2.3 Climate of the Tropical Rainforest

5.2.4 End of Topic Test - Weather & Climate

5.3 Tropical Storms

5.3.1 Formation of Tropical Storms

5.3.2 Features of Tropical Storms

5.3.3 The Structure of Tropical Storms

5.3.4 Tropical Storms Case Study: Katrina Effects

5.3.5 Tropical Storms Case Study: Katrina Responses

6 The World of Work

6.1 Tourism

6.1.1 Landscapes

6.1.2 The Growth of Tourism

6.1.3 Benefits of Tourism

6.1.4 Economic Costs of Tourism

6.1.5 Social, Cultural & Environmental Costs of Tourism

6.1.6 Tourism Case Study: Blackpool

6.1.7 Ecotourism

6.1.8 Tourism Case Study: Kenya

7 Natural Resources

7.1.1 What are Rocks?

7.1.2 Types of Rock

7.1.4 The Rock Cycle - Weathering

7.1.5 The Rock Cycle - Erosion

7.1.6 What is Soil?

7.1.7 Soil Profiles

7.1.8 Water

7.1.9 Global Water Demand

7.2 Fossil Fuels

7.2.1 Introduction to Fossil Fuels

7.2.2 Fossil Fuels

7.2.3 The Global Energy Supply

7.2.5 What is Peak Oil?

7.2.6 End of Topic Test - Natural Resources

8.1 River Processes & Landforms

8.1.1 Overview of Rivers

8.1.2 The Bradshaw Model

8.1.3 Erosion

8.1.4 Sediment Transport

8.1.5 River Deposition

8.1.6 River Profiles: Long Profiles

8.1.7 River Profiles: Cross Profiles

8.1.8 Waterfalls & Gorges

8.1.9 Interlocking Spurs

8.1.10 Meanders

8.1.11 Floodplains

8.1.12 Levees

8.1.13 Case Study: River Tees

8.2 Rivers & Flooding

8.2.1 Flood Risk Factors

8.2.2 Flood Management: Hard Engineering

8.2.3 Flood Management: Soft Engineering

8.2.4 Flooding Case Study: Boscastle

8.2.5 Flooding Case Study: Consequences of Boscastle

8.2.6 Flooding Case Study: Responses to Boscastle

8.2.7 Flooding Case Study: Bangladesh

8.2.8 End of Topic Test - Rivers

8.2.9 Rivers Case Study: The Nile

8.2.10 Rivers Case Study: The Mississippi

9.1 Formation of Coastal Landforms

9.1.1 Weathering

9.1.2 Erosion

9.1.3 Headlands & Bays

9.1.4 Caves, Arches & Stacks

9.1.5 Wave-Cut Platforms & Cliffs

9.1.6 Waves

9.1.7 Longshore Drift

9.1.8 Coastal Deposition

9.1.9 Spits, Bars & Sand Dunes

9.2 Coast Management

9.2.1 Management Strategies for Coastal Erosion

9.2.2 Case Study: The Holderness Coast

9.2.3 Case Study: Lyme Regis

9.2.4 End of Topic Test - Coasts

10 Glaciers

10.1 Overview of Glaciers & How They Work

10.1.1 Distribution of Glaciers

10.1.2 Types of Glaciers

10.1.3 The Last Ice Age

10.1.4 Formation & Movement of Glaciers

10.1.5 Shaping of Landscapes by Glaciers

10.1.6 Glacial Landforms Created by Erosion

10.1.7 Glacial Till & Outwash Plain

10.1.8 Moraines

10.1.9 Drumlins & Erratics

10.1.10 End of Topic Tests - Glaciers

10.1.11 Tourism in Glacial Landscapes

10.1.12 Strategies for Coping with Tourists

10.1.13 Case Study - Lake District: Tourism

10.1.14 Case Study - Lake District: Management

11 Tectonics

11.1 Continental Drift & Plate Tectonics

11.1.1 The Theory of Plate Tectonics

11.1.2 The Structure of the Earth

11.1.3 Tectonic Plates

11.1.4 Plate Margins

11.2 Volcanoes

11.2.1 Volcanoes & Their Products

11.2.2 The Development of Volcanoes

11.2.3 Living Near Volcanoes

11.3 Earthquakes

11.3.1 Overview of Earthquakes

11.3.2 Consequences of Earthquakes

11.3.3 Case Study: Christchurch, New Zealand Earthquake

11.4 Tsunamis

11.4.1 Formation of Tsunamis

11.4.2 Case Study: Japan 2010 Tsunami

11.5 Managing the Risk of Volcanoes & Earthquakes

11.5.1 Coping With Earthquakes & Volcanoes

11.5.2 End of Topic Test - Tectonics

12 Climate Change

12.1 The Causes & Consequences of Climate Change

12.1.1 Evidence for Climate Change

12.1.2 Natural Causes of Climate Change

12.1.3 Human Causes of Climate Change

12.1.4 The Greenhouse Effect

12.1.5 Effects of Climate Change on the Environment

12.1.6 Effects of Climate Change on People

12.1.7 Climate Change Predictions

12.1.8 Uncertainty About Future Climate Change

12.1.9 Mitigating Against Climate Change

12.1.10 Adapting to Climate Change

12.1.11 Case Study: Bangladesh

13 Global Population & Inequality

13.1 Global Populations

13.1.1 World Population

13.1.2 Population Structure

13.1.3 Ageing Populations

13.1.4 Youthful Populations

13.1.5 Population Control

13.1.6 Mexico to USA Migration

13.1.7 End of Topic Test - Development & Population

14 Urbanisation

14.1 Urbanisation

14.1.1 Rural Characterisitcs

14.1.2 Urban Characteristics

14.1.3 Urbanisation Growth

14.1.4 The Land Use Model

14.1.5 Rural-Urban Pull Factors

14.1.6 Rural-Urban Push Factors

14.1.7 The Impacts of Migration

14.1.8 Challenges of Urban Areas in Developed Countries

14.1.9 Challenges of Urban Areas in Developing Countries

14.1.10 Urban Sustainability

14.1.11 Case Study: China's Urbanisation

14.1.12 Major UK Cities

14.1.13 Urbanisation in the UK

14.1.14 End of Topic Test- Urbanisation

14.1.15 End of Topic Test - Urban Issues

15 Ecosystems

15.1 The Major Biomes

15.1.1 Distribution of Major Biomes

15.1.2 What Affects the Distribution of Biomes?

15.1.3 Biome Features: Tropical Forests

15.1.4 Biome Features: Temperate Forests

15.1.5 Biome Features: Tundra

15.1.6 Biome Features: Deserts

15.1.7 Biome Features: Tropical Grasslands

15.1.8 Biome Features: Temperate Grasslands

15.2 Case Study: The Amazon Rainforest

15.2.1 Interdependence of Rainforest Ecosystems

15.2.2 Nutrient Cycling in Tropical Rainforests

15.2.3 Deforestation in the Amazon

15.2.4 Impacts of Deforestation in the Amazon

15.2.5 Protecting the Amazon

15.2.6 Adaptations of Plants to Rainforests

15.2.7 Adaptations of Animals to Rainforests

16 Life in an Emerging Country

16.1 Case Studies

16.1.1 Mumbai: Opportunities

16.1.2 Mumbai: Challenges

17 Analysis of Africa

17.1 Africa

17.1.1 Desert Biomes in Africa

17.1.2 The Semi-Desert Biome

17.1.3 The Savanna Biome

17.1.4 Overview of Tropical Rainforests

17.1.5 Colonisation History

17.1.6 Population Distribution in Africa

17.1.7 Economic Resources in Africa

17.1.8 Urbanisation in Africa

17.1.9 Africa's Location

17.1.10 Physical Geography of Africa

17.1.11 Desertification in Africa

17.1.12 Reducing the Risk of Desertification

17.1.13 Case Study: The Sahara Desert - Opportunities

17.1.14 Case Study: The Sahara Desert - Development

18 Analysis of India

18.1 India - Physical Geography

18.1.1 Geographical Location of India

18.1.2 Physical Geography of India

18.1.3 India's Climate

18.1.4 Natural Disasters in India

18.1.5 Case Study: The Thar Desert

18.1.6 Case Study: The Thar Desert - Challenges

18.2 India - Human Geography

18.2.1 Population Distribution in India

18.2.2 Urabinsation in India

18.2.3 The History of India

18.2.4 Economic Resources in India

19 Analysis of the Middle East

19.1 The Middle East

19.1.1 Physical Geography of the Middle East

19.1.2 Human Geography of the Middle East

19.1.3 Climate Zones in the Middle East

19.1.4 Climate Comparison with the UK

19.1.5 Oil & Natural Gas in the Middle East

19.1.6 Water in the Middle East

19.1.7 Population of the Middle East

19.1.8 Development Case Studies: The UAE

19.1.9 Development Case Studies: Yemen

19.1.10 Supporting Development in Yemen

19.1.11 Connection to the UK

19.1.12 Importance of Oil

19.1.13 Oil & Tourism in the UAE

20 Analysis of Bangladesh

20.1 Bangladesh Physical Geography

20.1.1 Location of Bangladesh

20.1.2 Climate of Bangladesh

20.1.3 Rivers in Bangladesh

20.1.4 Flooding in Bangladesh

20.2 Bangladesh Human Geography

20.2.1 Population Structure in Bangladesh

20.2.2 Urbanisation in Bangladesh

20.2.3 Bangladesh's Economy

20.2.4 Energy & Sustainability in Bangladesh

21 Analysis of Russia

21.1 Russia's Physical Geography

21.1.1 Russia's Climate

21.1.2 Russia's Landscape

21.2 Russia's Human Geography

21.2.1 Population of Russia

21.2.2 Russia's Economy

21.2.3 Energy & Sustainability in Russia

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Case Study: The Thar Desert

Population Distribution in India

Living World - Opportunities & Challenges -Deserts

A case study of a hot desert - the Thar Desert

The Thar Desert is the world's seventh largest desert. It is a hostile environment that lies to the west of New Delhi and includes the deserts that cover portions of the Indian states of Gujarat, Punjab and Rajasthan, as well as the Punjab and Sind in Pakistan. Indeed, the desert straddles the border between India and Pakistan and covers over 200,000km squared. On its western margin lies the mighty Indus River. The Thar Desert is not empty of human or plant life, it has some trees and animal life, and it has been colonised for a long time.  It is known as the land of death, but hosts a variety of life.  It is the most populated desert in the world with nearly 30 million people and is also the most densely populated with 83 people per km2, it is known as the “teeming” desert. It is an environment with many opportunities and challenges to development.

Development opportunities in hot desert environments:

Tourism Jaisalmer is a desert city that has stood the test of time for nearly a thousand years.  It sits on an ancient trading highway between east and west, on the silk and spice routes. The population has waxed and waned with changes in trade and drought.  Recent times have seen the population grow by a third, as its booming tourist industry sucks people in.  More than 600,000 people now call the area home. The city is struggling to keep up, especially in terms of water use.  The fort gives the town its name, the golden city. The demand for water into the fort has gone up 12 fold, and the waste water passes under the foundations and undermines them.  The walls are subsiding and crumbling. People are coming as tourists because of its large fort, the history of the Maharajahs and because Jaisalmer is often used as a base to explore the nearby desert, in jeeps or by camel safari. Even the fort is struggling due to increased tourism. Originally the fort relied upon wells, but water was piped in in the 1970s. They failed to put in proper drainage with the water and it is now at risk of collapsing in parts.  Many tourist hotels are in the fort and this adds to the problem.

Subsistence farming

Many of the people who live in the Thar Desert are involved in farming, but this is tough. The landscape has creeping dunes, harsh winds, searing summer temperatures and devastating droughts. To combat this many of the people are subsistence farmers, farming enough food for themselves and their families with little for sale. There are depressions between the sand dunes that act as mini drainage basins.  When it does rain the water collects at the bottom of these depressions and allows desert grasses to grow.  This allows the animals to graze and people to live here in small settlements like Pithorai. People survive here by herding goats and women play an integral role in village life whilst the men are away with the animals.  They have to fetch water twice a day.  The houses are small and dark inside to keep cool in summer and warm in winter. The way of life is self-sufficient and the goats provide milk for the villagers. The women cook with butter milk as it saves water; similarly they do the washing up with sand! The women also have to collect firewood. Another group of farmers, the Raikas, are subsistence farmers who look after camels.

Commercial farming in the Thar Desert Mineral Extraction

Mineral extraction is the removal of solid mineral resources from the earth. In Rajasthan these resources include limestone and gypsum (for making plaster) are found in this desert - and are valuable for the building industry. Energy use The desert is also used to generate energy.  Close to Jaisalmer is the largest wind turbine farm in India. It consists of 75 wind turbines with a total capacity of 60 MW. The project provides renewable electricity to the Northern regional electricity grid.  There are also plans to develop a huge solar farm across large parts of the desert.

Despite all of the opportunities the Thar Desert still poses huge challenges in terms of developing a hot desert environment.  The extreme temperatures, poor water supply in parts of the desert, and inaccessibility in more remote regions all threaten the lives and well-being of the people who live there.

NEXT TOPIC - Living World - Desertification

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GCSE Geography | Challenges in the Thar Desert (Hot Deserts 4)

Last updated 19 Jul 2023

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The Thar Desert stretches across north-west India and into Pakistan, covering approximately 200,000 km² (which is slightly smaller than the UK). It is mostly in the Indian state of Rajasthan and is the most densely populated desert in the world.

The harsh conditions in the Thar Desert make life very challenging.

Extreme temperatures in the Thar Desert

Temperatures in the Thar Desert can exceed 50°C in the summer which makes life very difficult for people, animals and plants.

It is the world's most densely populated desert, and the majority of people work outside, for example farming and mining - working in the extreme heat can be extremely challenging, and puts people at serious risk of harm.

The extreme heat leads to high rates of evaporation, which can lead to water shortages in the region. This affects people through a lack of drinking water, but also means there may not be enough water for agricultural and industrial uses. It also has an impact on animals and plants.

Farmers have to provide shade for their livestock, such as goats and cattle, to protect them from the high insolation during the day.

Water supply in the Thar Desert

There are significant issues with water supply in the Thar Desert with demand for water increasing due to population growth, and the increased need to develop farming and industry in the region. The high population density is in conflict with water usage - water is scarce due to the lack of precipitation, extreme heat and strong winds - which all lead to high rates of evaporation.

There are some sources of water in the Thar Desert

• Ponds - these are where drinking water (for both people and animals) is stored. These can be natural ponds, known as tobas, or manmade ponds, which are called johads.
• Rivers and streams - these flow through the Thar Desert (such as the River Luni), however they are not permanent water sources and only flow after rainfall. Most of the people who live in this desert, live along these rivers.
• Aquifers - these are underground water sources where water is stored in rocks. This water can be accessed using wells, however the quality of the water is not great because of the high salt content.

Inaccessibility in the Thar Desert

Accessibility is difficult in the Thar Desert - extreme weather and vast barren areas have made it hard to develop a decent road network. Tarmac melts in extreme heat and the strong winds often blows sand across roads, meaning that drivers can't see where they are.

As a result most places in the Thar Desert can only be accessed by traditional forms of transport, such as camels. What public transport there is, is in the form of extremely overladen, and therefore dangerous, buses.

• Hot deserts
• Thar Desert
• Water supply

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Unveiling the Enigma: The Thar Desert’s Ancient Secrets and Changing Landscape

by Abdul Waheed Bhutto   19 September 2023

Introduction: The Thar Desert, a vast expanse of arid land situated in the northwestern part of India and the southeastern part of Pakistan, has long captured the imagination of historians, archaeologists, and geologists alike. This seemingly inhospitable terrain, with its rolling sand dunes and scorching temperatures, has a rich and multifaceted history that spans thousands of years. It is a land of ancient secrets and changing landscapes, where the ebb and flow of civilizations have left their indelible mark.

Historical Significance of the Thar Desert: Throughout the centuries, the Thar Desert has been a region of remarkable historical importance, with its rivers, particularly the Saraswati, playing a central role in the ancient Indian civilization. The Saraswati River, mentioned in revered texts like the Rig Veda, held immense cultural and religious significance. Its existence and flow were intertwined with the lives of the people living in the region, and it was celebrated as a mighty river despite its intermittent nature.

The Thar Desert, situated on the eastern fringes of the desert belt that extends westward across Arabia and the Sahara, has traditionally been seen as an inhospitable environment for early human settlements. However, research indicates that during periods of greater humidity in the past, humans not only survived but thrived in these landscapes. The Indus Civilization, also known as the Harappan Civilization, serves as a prime illustration. It prospered on the periphery of the Thar Desert along the path of the now-seasonal Ghaggar-Hakra River between 3200-1500 BCE, and it is believed to have inspired the legendary Saraswati River mentioned in the Rig Veda.

The Saraswati River holds immense significance in the Indian Subcontinent, once having its own distinct course separate from the neighboring Indus River. In 1832, James Tod referred to it as the “lost river of the desert.” He described its origin in the Siwalik Himalayas and its journey through various places, including Hansi, Hisar, Bhatner (now known as Hanumangarh), Rangmahal, and Phulra, ultimately reaching the vicinity of Derawar and Uch. Beyond this point, it followed the dry bed of a stream known as the ‘Khaggar,’ which stretched from Jaisalmer to Rohri. It then converged with a branch from Dara (possibly Nara), eventually contributing to the eastern branch of the Indus Delta.

Ancient Indian texts offer intriguing insights into the Saraswati River, with the Rig Veda being the oldest and most comprehensive, containing significant descriptions of this river. In the Rig Veda, the Saraswati River is revered as the mightiest and most splendid among all rivers, even though the term ‘Saras’ itself signifies a pool of water or a lake. Originally, the Rig Veda, along with the three subsequent Vedas, consisted of oral teachings covering diverse aspects of the environment, life, and society. Later, these teachings were compiled into a closely guarded written text in Sanskrit, becoming a comprehensive repository of knowledge.

Another ancient literary work, the Mahabharata, contains references to the Saraswati River vanishing into the desert sands and subsequently reemerging at different locations downstream. Across the Indian subcontinent, individuals with a basic education possessed fundamental knowledge about the Saraswati River and its primary tributaries because the Vedas were an integral part of the standard curriculum for basic education.

R.D. Oldham in 1886 concurred with these findings and added that historical texts like the Chachnama and the Beglarnama provided evidence that the river maintained a significant perennial flow in its middle and lower reaches until the 11th Century AD. Intriguingly, he observed that the Indus River never contributed to the Saraswati’s sustenance. Due to its intermittently dry and obscured state, the river bore various names over time, including Ghaggar, Sotra, Sotar, Choya, Hakra, Sakra, Sankra, Wandan, Dahan, Wadhawah, Dadhawah, Wahind, Nara, among others.

The decline of this river system can be attributed to geological activity and changes in monsoon patterns, eventually leading to its drying up around 4,000 years ago. This captivating story unveils the intricate relationship between climate, civilization, and the ever-changing landscape of the Thar Desert.

Recent Discoveries: Challenging Desert Paradigms: Similarly, a groundbreaking research study, helmed by PV Rajesh from the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology in Pune and BN Goswami from Cotton University in Guwahati, made waves when it was published in the renowned Earth’s Future journal on July 31, 2023. This study disrupts the long-standing belief in the established principle that “wet areas become wetter and dry areas become drier,” heralding a profound shift in our comprehension of the intricate dynamics at play within the enigmatic Thar Desert. Their findings were astonishing: contrary to conventional wisdom, the Thar Desert is experiencing a progressive increase in annual rainfall. This shift, attributable to changes in the monsoon system, challenges the conventional perception of deserts as static and unchanging landscapes.

One leading theory is that the Indian Ocean, which plays a pivotal role in monsoon circulation, is undergoing transformative changes due to global climate factors. The changing oceanic conditions are, in turn, impacting the monsoon winds that bring moisture to the Thar Desert.

As we navigate these new discoveries and insights, it becomes clear that the Thar Desert is not just an arid wasteland, but a dynamic and evolving landscape that continues to surprise us with its secrets. From its ancient history intertwined with the Saraswati River to its shifting climate patterns, the Thar Desert is a testament to the ever-changing nature of our planet and the importance of ongoing scientific exploration to unravel its mysteries.

Challenges in the Thar Desert: However, beneath its picturesque exterior, the Thar Desert faces a multitude of social welfare challenges, spanning education, healthcare, employment, food and water scarcity, and environmental conservation.

Limited access to quality education, particularly in remote areas, results in high dropout rates and low literacy levels, especially among girls. Inadequate healthcare facilities lead to health disparities, with malnutrition, waterborne diseases, and infant mortality posing significant concerns. The region’s economy, heavily dependent on agriculture and livestock, struggles with a shortage of employment opportunities and a high unemployment rate.

Moreover, the people of Thar Desert grapple with food and water scarcity. The arid region’s limited rainfall makes it challenging for local farmers to sustain their livelihoods, leading to food shortages and malnutrition, especially among vulnerable populations. Additionally, access to clean and safe drinking water remains a major concern due to scarce and unreliable natural water sources, exacerbating health risks. Despite the strategic construction of several small dams in certain areas of the Karoonjhar mountain range to mitigate water scarcity, their impact has been limited.

Returning to the present, insights from a local farmer highlight the Thar Desert’s reliance on a specific rainfall pattern characterized by three to four intermittent intervals. To support robust crop cultivation in this arid region, approximately 150 to 170 mm of rainfall is deemed essential. Farmers have a particular timeframe in mind, anticipating rain around mid-July, in the middle of August, and at the outset of September. These well-timed rainy episodes are instrumental in securing successful crop yields by supplying the essential moisture required for plant growth.

The year 2019 brought abundant rainfall to the Thar Desert, but unfortunately, the productivity of the land suffered due to an invasion of locusts. This situation highlights a clear example of the obstacles the region might face during wet years if proper management is not in place. Additionally, a recent development has taken root in Pakistan’s Thar region – the cultivation of crops like cotton, wheat, and vegetables. What’s interesting is that this effort is being supported by the use of solar-powered submersible water pumps, even though the water table is about 200 feet below the surface. Another Thar farmer pointed out that those with the financial means to invest in solar energy are taking the lead in driving forward this initiative.

Potential for Economic Growth: The Thar Desert hosts a myriad of plants boasting remarkable nutritional and medicinal attributes. These plants exhibit a unique ability to thrive even in environments characterized by limited resources and drought conditions. Another challenge involves recognizing the potential of these adaptable plants for cultivation, moving away from water-intensive agriculture that demands significant irrigation, fertilizers, and expansive land usage. Importantly, this journey underscores the paramount importance of preserving the delicate ecosystem.

The connection between the people of Thar and their animals is deeply rooted in history, dating back centuries, and is as old as the desert itself. Mobilizing animals between Tharparkar and its adjacent barrage areas, like Badin and Mirpurkhas, is a common practice, and it serves as a lifeline for both residents and their livestock. During floods, those from the barrage areas move their animals to the desert in search of greener pastures. Conversely, when droughts strike parts of the Thar Desert, the people of Tharparkar move their animals to the barrage areas to ensure their survival. The importance of this practice is underscored by the fact that the availability of fodder varies with the changing seasons.

According to the Economic Survey of Pakistan for the year 2022-23, the livestock sector has emerged as a dominant force in the country’s agriculture, contributing approximately 62.68 percent of the agriculture value added and making up 14.36 percent of the national GDP. Additionally, this sector plays a significant role in generating net foreign exchange earnings, accounting for around 2.1 percent of the country’s total exports.

Given the significance of livestock in the Thar Desert, where droughts are a recurring challenge, providing training and support to cattle farmers to help them cope with weather changes is a crucial step. This assistance can significantly contribute to the well-being of both the community and the over nine million animals that depend on this arid region for their livelihoods.

Environmental Concerns: Compounding the existing challenges, Thar coal mining and the establishment of power plants in the Thar Desert region have raised serious environmental concerns. While the primary aim of these projects is to enhance the country’s energy production and reduce dependency on imports, they come with significant environmental consequences. The process of land clearance for mining and plant construction has resulted in deforestation and habitat destruction, posing a threat to the local flora and fauna.

Moreover, the operation of coal-fired power plants leads to the release of harmful emissions such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which adversely affect air quality and public health. Additionally, these activities contribute to land degradation and increase the risks associated with climate change. Furthermore, the traditional practices and livelihoods of indigenous communities in the area have been impacted by these developments. Despite profiting from these operations, there have been complaints that the company is not adequately contributing to the social welfare of the local people. The lack of significant investment in the community has left the local population without proper benefits or support.

Furthermore, the disregard for historical sites in the area is clear, and there have been minimal to no endeavors aimed at their restoration and conservation. This neglect has given rise to discontent among residents who hold their cultural heritage and history in high regard.

To rectify these issues, it is of paramount importance for the authorities to acknowledge their responsibility for the environmental impacts stemming from industrial and commercial activities. They must take proactive steps to invest in the welfare of the local population. This investment should encompass the restoration and protection of historical sites, not only for the betterment of the community but also for the overall benefit of the region.

Solar Energy Potential: Thar holds significant solar energy potential due to its strategic location within the sun-drenched Thar Desert. The region benefits from abundant sunlight and minimal cloud cover throughout the year, making it an ideal site for solar energy harnessing. The flat terrain offers ample space for large-scale solar power projects, and both utility-scale and distributed solar solutions hold promise.

Recently, Thar Desert has witnessed a surge in controversies concerning granite mining, which has evoked widespread public outcry and led to protests, compelling the government to reevaluate its proposals. The matter of granite mining came to the forefront after an advertisement for auction of a granite mining lease in Nanagarparkar, Tharparkar district, was published in newspapers in July 2023, triggering strong opposition.

Preservation of Cultural and Natural Heritage: The Thar desert serves as a testament to the rich religious, cultural, and social fabrics. Concerted efforts from the government, NGOs, and the private sector are required to address socioeconomic issues and protect the region’s natural heritage. Stringent regulations, sustainable alternatives, and renewable energy investments can help mitigate the consequences of mining activities.

Balancing Progress and Preservation. Thar Desert represents a landscape of immense historical, cultural, and environmental significance. It stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of human civilization and nature’s resilience in the face of challenges.

Exploring avenues of sustainable development, such as harnessing the abundant solar energy potential, presents a promising path towards achieving a harmonious balance between economic growth and environmental conservation. Additionally, recognizing and supporting the deep-rooted tradition of cattle farming in the region can contribute to its economic vitality.

Moreover, preserving the Thar Desert’s cultural and natural heritage is of paramount importance. This involves implementing stringent regulations to mitigate the adverse effects of industrial activities, embracing sustainable alternatives, and investing in renewable energy solutions.

Collaborative efforts between nations, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting regional security through cooperation are essential in today’s interconnected world. Prioritizing the long-term well-being of the Thar Desert’s people, culture, and natural resources over short-term gains is a forward-thinking approach that ensures the enduring prosperity of this unique and cherished region. As the adage goes, we must avoid “killing the bird to get the golden eggs” and instead adopt a holistic perspective that safeguards the legacy of the Thar Desert for generations to come.

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Challenges and opportunities in the Thar Desert

Subject: Geography

Age range: 11-14

Resource type: Lesson (complete)

Last updated

4 April 2023

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This lesson uses the Thar Desert as a case study to investigat e the opportunities and challegnes of the Hot Desert, however most of the materials could be adapted to another case study if your school uses another one.

The lesson starts with locating the Thar desert, then the students use flash cards to fill out a table with Partner A looking into opportunities and Partner B challenges. They then work together sharing their knowledge to complete a matrix. The final task asks students to create a tweet to show their knowedge. This works well for KS3 however for KS4 it could also be replaced with an example GCSE question from zour exam board on opportunities and challenges.

Included Resources

• Full lesson Powerpoint
• Worksheet for the lesson
• Partner A and Partner B table worksheet (differentiated versions of the table also included).
• Flash cards of opportunities and challenges
• Stretch and challenge task (The Whatsapp task at the end)

Tes paid licence How can I reuse this?

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