Question

Explain the following term.

Tank

Answer 1

A tank, in irrigation, is a conventional man-made reservoir built by building an earthen or masonry wall (bund) across a natural depression or hill slope to catch and store rainwater. This method of water harvesting is widely used in Southern India's harsh, rocky Peninsular Plateau, particularly in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka. Because the underlying hard crystalline rocks prevent water from seeping underground, digging deep wells is difficult, hence surface tanks are the most feasible alternative for storing seasonal monsoon runoff. The impounded water is then released via small canals to irrigate agricultural areas, feed cattle, and supply local domestic requirements throughout the long dry season.