History:
The Banas River has its origin in the Khamnor Hills, which is a tributary of the Chambal River. The river is popularly known as “Van Ki Asha” meaning hope of the forest. The river drains a basin of 45,833 km-square. It is a seasonal river that dries up during the summer months. But thanks to the Dantiwada Dam, whose construction started in 1958 and continued till 1965, the water from this river can be used for irrigation projects.This dam was in the news when it breached due to heavy flood in 1973. This happened because its flood handling capacity was exceeded by one and a half time. Saras Cranes are seen flocking to Dantiwada Dam.