Caron Rawnsley arrived in Jodhpur in 2014 while searching for traces of his mother's past in the city. He found numerous historic stepwells, traditional water-harvesting structures, buried under waste and silt.
Rawnsley began clearing the debris by hand, working on the structures one at a time. His efforts gradually drew local volunteers who joined the restoration work.
Over the following years, the initiative expanded to ten stepwells across Jodhpur. The cleared structures have been returned to public memory and, in some cases, to functional use for water collection.
The stepwells, known locally as baoris or jhalaras, were once vital components of the region's water management system. Many had fallen into disrepair and been used as dumping grounds over decades.
Rawnsley's work has been supported by residents, students, and local organizations who contribute labor and awareness campaigns. The project operates without formal institutional backing.
Restoration involves removing accumulated garbage, desilting the wells, and repairing damaged masonry where possible. The volunteers also conduct heritage walks to educate visitors about the structures' history.
Several of the revived stepwells now hold seasonal rainwater, providing a supplementary water source for nearby communities. Others serve as cultural landmarks and gathering spaces.
The initiative continues with ongoing maintenance and efforts to protect the structures from future encroachment and pollution.
This Irishman Came to Jodhpur Looking for His Mother’s Past & Ended Up Reviving 10 Stepwells
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