KHOONI BHANDARA – Chinmaya IAS Academy

GS 1-ART AND CULTURE

Ingenious system consisting of 103 well-like structures called Kundis (aqueducts).
Operates based on the law of gravity, ensuring smooth water flow from the first to the last Kundi.
Water recharge mechanism:
- Intercepts subsoil groundwater through underground channels.
- Stores water in structures known as Bhandaras, partially underground and above ground.
Built in 1615 CE using the Persian qanat system.
Six out of the original eight sets of underground channels are still intact.

Water Source and Distribution

Groundwater is sourced from springs in the Satpura hills flowing towards the Tapti River.
Reservoirs contributing water:
- Mool-bhandara
- Chintaharan
- Sookha-bhandara
Water flow system:
- Collected at a central point and directed to Khooni Bhandara.
- Transported to Jali Karanj or Jal Bhandara.
- Distributed through pipelines to the entire city.
Functioned as the city’s primary water supply for over 300 years.

Reason for the Name “Khooni Bhandara”

Mineral-rich water had a reddish hue, giving it the name “Khooni” (bloody).
Recognized as a state-protected structure by the Directorate of Archaeology, Archives, and Museums.

Historical Significance

Mughal Era Developments:
- Burhanpur became a military and commercial hub in the late 16th century.
- Served as the base for Mughal expansion in South India.
Role of Abdul-Rahim Khan-i-Khana:
- Governor of Khandesh during Jahangir’s reign with Burhanpur as his capital.
- Initiated the construction of the underground canal to improve the city’s water supply.
Construction Details:
- Supervised by Tabaqat-al-Ardh (Department of Earth Sciences).
- Persian geologist Tabkutul Arz surveyed the region and implemented the design.
- The system was inspired by the ancient qanat technique, developed over 3,000 years ago in Persia.

Qanat System