Thar Desert

Question 1

Challenges

Extreme Climate

Answer 1

• Average daytime temperature of ≃ 46°C - This makes outdoor work like farming difficult
• Low Rainfall - 100mm to 500mm per year.
• High evaporation rates from irrigation canals lead to increased salt concentration in the soil, which negatively affects plant life and hampers crop growth.

Question 2

Challenges

Inaccessibility

Answer 2

Roads limited due to melting tarmac, heat, and little funds. Public transport poor, relies on overloaded buses. Some places accessible only by camel due to lack of roads and sandstorms.

Question 3

Challenges

Water Supplies

Answer 3

Thar Desert’s water scarcity: Climate impact, unpredictable rain, intermittent rivers. Deep, saline groundwater accessed through wells.

Question 4

Development Opportunites

Mineral Extraction

Answer 4

Minerals such as gypsum, limestone and white marble are valuable building materials, and kaolin can be used to manufacture paper

Question 5

Development Opportunites

Tourism

Answer 5

With its exotic location and vibrant village culture, the Thar Desert attracts a growing number of tourists. Local can earn money by selling souvenirs, acting as tour guides or offering camel rides

Question 6

Development Opportunites

Farming

Answer 6

The Indira Gandhi Canal has provided irrigation for commercial crops such as wheat, cotton and pulses. It is also a source of drinking water. Sustainable drought-tolerant trees such as the jujube tree, are planted to stabilise sand dunes and produce a valuable crop

Question 7

Development Opportunities

Energy Production

Answer 7

Desert’s climate for green energy. Jaisalmer wind park, Bhaleri solar plant. Diversified energy sources.