Shiwalik Check Dams Project
January, 2014. This project is an analysis of the geophysical and socio-economic impacts of check dams in the Shiwalik foothills of the state of Punjab in India. This degraded area has relatively high proportions of disempowered populations such as the Gujjars (a nomadic tribal community), Dalits (low caste group), and poor migrant laborers. We conducted research on three check dams: Sukho Majri (fully functional), Dhamala (rehabilitated) and Rel Majra (obsolete) and gathered data on the effects of these dams on channel morphology, surrounding land cover and ground water levels; and the lives and livelihoods of the local populations.