Gadisar Lake | 17 Nov 2025

Why in News? 

The Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer is facing conservation issues, prompting the Rajasthan High Court to direct the state government to submit a detailed response on its plans to conserve the lake. 

Key Points 

• Gadisar Lake is a 14th-century artificial water reservoir located in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. 
• It was originally built by Raja Rawal Jaisal, and later renovated by Maharawal Gadsi Singh, from whom it derives its present name. 
• The lake was historically the primary water source for Jaisalmer, functioning as a crucial rainwater harvesting and conservation system in the desert region. 
• The lake’s catchment area has shrunk due to encroachment, urban pressure, siltation, and pollution, threatening its ecological balance. 
• Gadisar Lake supports local biodiversity, including migratory birds in winter, making it an important urban-wetland ecosystem. 
• It is surrounded by ghats, temples and chhatris that create a rich cultural–architectural heritage zone, and it continues to draw visitors for its Tilon-ki-Pol gateway, boating activities and scenic vistas.