Gujarat Jal Utsav 2023 Begins in Amreli

Gujarat’s first-ever Jal Utsav was inaugurated by Gujarat Governor Shri Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel at Lathi-Dudhala in Amreli. This marked the official launch of Gujarat Jal Utsav 2023, a unique celebration of water, nature, and sustainability.

For the first time in Saurashtra, visitors can enjoy water sports, carnival amusements (melo), paramotoring, and a nature park with peaceful lakeside tents. Therefore, the venue offers both adventure and relaxation in a scenic setting.

A Grand Inauguration with a Strong Purpose

Amreli, Gujarat – 17th November 2023 – The grand inauguration of Gujarat Jal Utsav 2023, the state’s first Water Festival, took place at Het Ni Haveli, Lathi-Dudhala. The festival will continue until 25th November. The ceremony was graced by Governor Shri Acharya Devvrat Ji and Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel.

This festival is a special collaboration between the Government of Gujarat and the Dholakia Foundation. It aims to inspire communities, celebrate water conservation, and showcase the region’s transformation through sustainable efforts.

Transformation Through Water Conservation

The water conservation journey began when Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated Hari Krishna Sarovar. The project was dedicated to the local community. Since then, a series of lakes has turned the venue into one of the most scenic landscapes in the region.

Gujarat Jal Utsav 2023 features water sports, paramotoring, horse shows, cultural evenings, and serene lakeside tent stays. As a result, visitors experience both adventure and nature in one place.

The festival opened with an impressive turnout of around 9,000 participants on the first day. It aims to unite people under the shared goal of a water-secure future.

Laying of foundation stone of the check dam by Gujarat Governor Shri Acharya Devvrat Ji and Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel

Foundation Stone for Water Security

A foundation-laying ceremony for check dams took place at the trijunction of Bhesan, Bodiya, and Sanaliya villages. Governor Shri Acharya Devvrat and Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel led the event. Cabinet Minister Shri Kunvarji Bavaliya, Tourism Minister Shri Mulubhai Bera, and Dholakia Foundation Chairman Shri Savjibhai Dholakia were also present.

These check dams will store more rainwater during monsoon seasons. As a result, they will strengthen ongoing river rejuvenation efforts.

Amrit Van Botanical Garden Inaugurated

The Governor and Chief Minister also inaugurated a botanical garden named “Amrit Van.” It includes over 26,000 plants across 70 varieties, along with themed animal statues. Therefore, it will serve as an educational and recreational space for visitors and students.

The festival featured cultural performances and felicitation of dignitaries, enjoyed by over 4,000 people.

Leaders Speak on Water and Sustainability

Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel said, “In Saurashtra, many people face water scarcity. However, today, lakes in this high-salinity region are full of rainwater. This success is due to the efforts of the State Government and the Dholakia Foundation.”

Governor Shri Acharya Devvrat added, “Water is life. Without water, agriculture, biodiversity, and life itself cannot exist. The Chief Minister’s resolution to free the state from water problems will inspire Gujarat and other states.”

A Festival Rooted in Sustainability

Gujarat Jal Utsav 2023 promotes eco-friendly practices and responsible water use. The festival offsets its carbon emissions through large-scale tree plantation drives. The Dholakia Foundation has already developed over 140 lakes in water-scarce regions of Gujarat. Together, they store more than 15 billion litres of water and benefit nearly 300,000 residents.

Furthermore, the United Nations has recognised the foundation as a partner in the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration.

Promoting Eco-Tourism and Awareness

Beyond celebration, Gujarat Jal Utsav 2023 promotes eco-tourism and raises awareness about water conservation. It encourages visitors to adopt sustainable lifestyles and become long-term environmental stewards.

Contact Information

For more information, visit www.jalutsav.com or email jalutsav@dholakia.foundation.