Rainwater harvesting is becoming increasingly important in urban areas where water scarcity is a growing concern. RETAS, which stands for Innovative Rainwater harvesting, modular rainwater harvesting and other sustainable water management practices, are crucial to combat this issue. While rainwater harvesting systems are commonly installed in low-rise buildings, implementing them in high-rise buildings and urban areas presents a unique set of challenges. However, with innovative approaches, RETAS in high-rise buildings and urban areas is not only feasible but also highly effective. In this blog post, we'll explore some innovative approaches to RETAS in high-rise buildings and urban areas, including modular systems, hybrid systems, permeable pavements, rain gardens, and education and outreach programs. By implementing these RETAS approaches, we can reduce our dependence on potable water and minimize the environmental impact on our buildings and communities.

Innovative Approaches To Rainwater Harvesting

• Modular Systems: One of the most innovative approaches to innovative rainwater harvesting in high-rise buildings is the use of modular systems. Modular systems are easy to install and can be customized to meet the specific needs of a building. They can be installed on rooftops, balconies, or terraces, and can collect rainwater from multiple sources, including roofs, pavements, and open spaces. Modular systems can also be integrated with green roofs, which can help to reduce the amount of rainwater runoff and improve the energy efficiency of the building.
• Hybrid Systems: Another innovative approach to rainwater harvesting in high-rise buildings is the use of hybrid systems. Hybrid systems combine rainwater harvesting with other water management practices, such as greywater recycling and groundwater recharge. By integrating multiple water management practices, hybrid systems can reduce the demand for potable water and minimize the environmental impact of the building.
• Permeable Pavements: Permeable pavements are another approach to rainwater harvesting in high- rise buildings and urban areas. These pavements allow rainwater to seep through the pavement and recharge the groundwater. They can also reduce the amount of rainwater runoff and improve the overall water quality of the area.
• Rain Gardens: Rain gardens are designed to capture and store rainwater, which can then be used for irrigation or other non-potable purposes. They can be installed in public spaces, such as parks and plazas, or on private property, such as rooftops and balconies.
• Education and Outreach Programs: To make rainwater harvesting more effective in high-rise buildings and urban areas, it is also important to raise awareness among the public. Education and outreach programs can help to increase public awareness about the benefits of rainwater harvesting and encourage more people to implement it in their homes and communities.

Conclusion

Innovative approaches for rainwater harvesting in high-rise buildings and urban areas are essential for sustainable water management. RETAS, including rainwater harvesting and other sustainable water management practices, can help to alleviate the growing concerns of water scarcity in urban areas. By implementing innovative approaches we can reduce our reliance on potable water and minimize the environmental impact on our buildings and communities. These solutions not only provide a more sustainable source of water but also help to reduce the strain on existing water resources. It is imperative that we continue to explore and implement innovative approaches to RETAS in high-rise buildings and urban areas for a more sustainable future.

In order to reduce flooding, avoid water pollution, and preserve water resources, efficient storm water management is essential in metropolitan settings. Modular rainwater harvesting technologies have come to light as creative responses to these problems in recent years. We can revolutionise storm water management procedures by fusing underground water storage tanks with modular rainwater harvesting. Continue reading to learn about the value of underground water storage tanks in this situation as well as the significance of modular rainwater harvesting in storm water management.

Modular rainwater harvesting is the collection, management, and storage of rainwater using interconnected components, or modules. These systems typically include surfaces for collecting rainwater, networks for transporting it, filtration components, and storage facilities. Rainwater can be efficiently collected, processed, and stored using modular systems for a variety of uses, such as storm water management. 

Modular rainwater harvesting advantages:

• Flood Mitigation: Storm water runoff during heavy rain may clog drainage systems and cause flooding. By collecting and temporarily storing extra rainwater, modular rainwater harvesting devices help solve this problem. These technologies aid in avoiding flooding and the damage it causes by limiting the amount of runoff.
• Reducing water pollution: Storm water runoff frequently brings toxins and pollutants that can damage aquatic habitats. By gathering and purifying runoff, modular rainwater harvesting devices are essential for storm water management. These systems use filtration and treatment procedures to get rid of impurities like sediment and debris, ensuring that cleaner water is released into the environment.
• Water conservation: Modular systems lessen dependency on outside water sources by collecting and storing rainfall. In locations where water scarcity is a concern, the wise use of water resources is especially important. Further improving water conservation, stored rainwater can be used for industrial operations or other non-potable uses like irrigation.

Underground water storage tanks for storm water management: In storm water management, underground water storage tanks are a supplement to modular rainwater harvesting systems. These tanks increase the amount of storage space available for rainwater collection and make it easier to release or reuse the water in a controlled manner by offering:

• Greater storage capacity: In places with limited space, underground water storage tanks are a big benefit. These tanks can retain significant amounts of rainwater without taking up valuable surface area since they make use of the subsurface space.
• Visually pleasing: Underground tanks are undetectable and do not detract from the beauty of the surroundings. They may be smoothly incorporated into the infrastructure already in place, upholding the aesthetic appeal of the neighbourhood.
• Improved system resilience: Underground tanks act as a safety net in case of severe weather. Surplus rainwater could be safely held in the subterranean tanks during times of heavy precipitation, easing the burden on drainage systems and lowering the risk of floods.

Storm water management can be revolutionised by the use of modular rainwater harvesting and subsurface water storage tanks. These technologies aid in efforts to conserve water by reducing flooding and preventing water contamination. Modular rainwater harvesting and subterranean water storage are areas of competence for Retas Water Solutions, a top supplier of cutting-edge water management solutions. 

Retas Water Solutions is an invaluable partner in building more resilient and environmentally friendly urban environments thanks to their cutting-edge technology and expertise in water management. Retas Water Solutions' technologies  can also be modified to meet the unique requirements of each project, providing optimum effectiveness and sustainability.

Rainwater Harvesting

A straightforward method or technique called "rainwater harvesting" is used to gather, transport, store, and purify rainwater for later use. Let's look at the rainwater harvesting system's design.

All living organisms, including plants, animals, and people, depend on water to maintain their existence and carry out numerous cellular functions. Ever considered a day without access to water?

No, and it's difficult to imagine. Everyday tasks including cleaning, washing, bathing, cooking, drinking, and other residential and industrial uses all need the use of water. The key, essential, and non-renewable element of the environment is water. The main causes of the water shortage we are currently experiencing are inadequate water conservation efforts and water body contamination. Therefore, let's start conserving water now so that we don't squander any of it in the future.

Several techniques are used to conserve water when collecting rainwater. With the use of a straightforward picture, this article explains the idea of a rainwater harvesting system.

Table of Contents

• Rainwater Harvesting System
• Rainwater Harvesting Solutions?
• Why do we harvest Rainwater?
• Advantages of Rainwater Harvesting
• Disadvantages of Rainwater Harvesting

How Can Rainwater Be Harvested?

The following parts make up the rainwater harvesting system:

• Rainwater is gathered and stored in catchments.
• Transports gathered water from catchment regions to storage locations using a conveyance system.
• First Flush: Used to redirect the first downpour in order to avoid pollution.
• Filters are employed to eliminate pollutants from the rainwater that has been collected.
• Water that has been filtered and is ready for use is kept in tanks and recharge structures.
• Rainwater is captured and channeled from natural sources or man-made catchment areas like roofs, landscapes, roadways, open fields, etc. during the process of rainwater harvesting, which involves the collecting and storage of rainfall through specified systems. Surface water flow from impermeable or semi-permeable places, such as soil surfaces, rocks, sloping hills, and artificial recharge zones, is included in this.

The amount of water collected is significantly influenced by a number of factors, including:

• The severity of the rain Catchment area characteristics
• impact on the environment
• technological readiness
• Capacity of the storage tank
• type, slope, and material of the roof
• frequency, volume, and quality of rainfall
• the rate at which rainwater enters the subsoil and infiltrates for groundwater recharge.

How Come We Collect Rainwater?

One of the best strategies used and promoted to enhance water conservation is rainwater gathering. Nowadays, there is a serious problem with the lack of good water. However, rainwater can also be utilized for irrigation, cleaning, washing, cooking, and other livestock needs because it is pure and of high quality.

Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting: The following are some advantages of a rainwater harvesting system:

• Cost-effective.
• helps cut down on water costs.
• decreases the need for water imports.
• encourages energy and water conservation.
• enhances the quantity and quality of groundwater.
• dispenses with the requirement for irrigation infrastructure in dry places.
• Simple to set up, run, and install.
• reduces surface water contamination from metals, chemicals, fertilizers, and other toxins, as well as pollution from floods, stormwater runoff, and sediment.
• offers a great source of mineral- and chemical-free water that is perfect for irrigating soil.
• Issues with Rainwater Harvesting
• In addition to the enormous benefits, rainwater collecting has a few disadvantages, such as unforeseen rainfall, a lack of adequate storage systems, etc.

The following are some downsides of rainwater harvesting:

• calls for routine maintenance.
• installation requires some technological know-how.
• Rainfall that is insufficient and erratic might limit the amount of available water.
• Inadequate installation might encourage the spread of waterborne illnesses and mosquitoes.
• Limitations in storage space are a key disadvantage to rainwater harvesting.
• The availability of adequate rooftops or catchment areas is a prerequisite for the installation of rainwater harvesting devices.
• Rettas Water Solutions' biological solutions can help you learn more about rainwater collection and other relevant biological and environmental issues.
• We can significantly help to conserve water by implementing rainwater gathering techniques. In addition to helping the environment and ensuring a sustainable future, it also benefits us. So let's embrace rainwater collection as a prudent strategy for managing water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1
What do you understand by rainwater harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting and storing rainwater for later use instead of letting it flow away.

Q2
What are the different methods of rainwater harvesting?
The various methods of rainwater harvesting include:

Roof Rainwater Harvesting - The roof becomes a catchment area, and rainwater is collected from buildings and houses. The components of roof rainwater harvesting are:

• First flush
• Conveyance
• Catchment area
• Filtration
• Surface Runoff Harvesting - This is a system that collects rainwater, which flows as surface runoff. It captures flowing rainwater using appropriate techniques and utilizes it for recharging aquifers.

Q3
What is the importance of rainwater harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable process that helps conserve water for future needs. In the present scenario, water scarcity is a major concern. Rainwater harvesting is a good method for water conservation.

Q4
What are the benefits of rainwater harvesting?
The benefits of rainwater harvesting are:

• It is cost-effective.
• It helps in water conservation.
• It provides a source of water for soil irrigation.
• It is a simple method and easy to practice.
• It reduces soil erosion and pollution of water bodies caused by fertilizers, pesticides, and other contaminants.

Q5
What factors affect the quantity of stored rainwater?

• The factors that affect the quantity of stored rainwater are:
• Catchment area characteristics
• Intensity of rainfall
• Storage tank capacity
   

Industrial Rainwater Harvesting

In today’s time, conserving water is cited as one of the essential facts in almost every industry. In recent years, one has seen main advancements in water conservation. This gets credited to industrial and inventive approaches. Industry must align with the environmental sector for proper growth. Furthermore, this article will analyze the concept of industrial rainwater harvesting. It will consist of advantages, methods of implementation, and water conservation methods.

Understanding Rainwater Harvesting System

Rainwater harvesting systems allow the collection of rainwater for several purposes. It reduces the dependence on traditional water sources. It works as a typical system for components like rooftops, gutters, downpipes, filters, and storage.

There are different types of rainwater gathering systems like direct and seawater harvesting systems. Plus, it depends upon different types of specific requirements.

Advantages of Industrial Rainwater Harvesting

Environmental Benefits-

Industrial rainwater harvesting is equipped with environmental advantages linked to it. With rainwater harvesting, businesses can reduce the burden on municipal water supplies. It promotes water conservation. It assists in recharging groundwater levels and mitigates the risks of drought. It preserves aquatic ecosystems. 

Economic Benefits:

Rainwater harvesting leads to significant cost savings for industries. One can rely upon harvested rainwater for irrigation, reducing the water bills and cooling process.

Apart from it, several regions provide financial incentives or tax benefits to organizations. It supports adequate water management practices.

Social Benefits:

Industrial rainwater harvesting can impact local communities. Plus, it entails industries that can adapt practices including the demand for water deprived from conventional sources. 

In addition, it benefits the community by providing enhanced water availability.

Many industries prioritize sustainability which tends to increase their reputation.

Plus, it prioritizes sustainability which tends to increase its reputation and strengthen its relationship with stakeholders.

Implementation of Industrial Rainwater Harvesting

Site Assessment & Design:

A comprehensive site assessment is implemented before rainwater harvesting. The moment when assessment gets completed, then an appropriate system design is developed.

Installation Process:

The installation of a rainwater harvesting system also includes skilled professionals. These professionals include catchment areas, piping, filtration units, storage tanks, and distribution networks. Moreover, the proper installation ensures optimal performance and can easily maximize the efficiency of the system.

Maintenance & Upkeep:

Regular maintenance is essential in preserving the rainwater harvesting system in adequate condition. It includes periodic inspection, cleaning of filters, and maintenance of tanks. It also prevents clogging and contamination.

Regulations & Incentives For Industrial Rainwater Harvesting

Governments believe in providing incentives and repayment to businesses that approve rainwater harvesting systems, which foster their implementation.

Case Studies of Successful Implementations

Several industrial facilities have adopted rainwater harvesting systems and reaped the benefits. It includes manufacturing plants, warehouses, and office complexes. It reduces their reliance on potable water which further leads to cost savings and protection of the environment.

Challenges & Solutions Technical Challenges:

Industrial rainwater harvesting consists of technical challenges such as complexity in system design. It also includes the demand for seamless filtration.

Perceptions & Awareness:

Owing to the lack of awareness linked to rainwater harvesting can easily impact its adoption. In addition, one can impart quality education to industries and communities.

Overcoming Barriers

Financial constraints or bureaucratic hurdles can easily discourage businesses from investing in rainwater harvesting. In addition, innovative financing options and streamlined approval processes can remove these difficulties easily.

The Future of Industrial Rainwater Harvesting

Sustainability is a priority for industries and the adoption of rainwater harvesting can grow at a steady rate. In addition, the evolution of advancement in technology embracing supporting policies and incentives brings sustainability.

Conclusion

Industrial rainwater harvesting is a powerful and sustainable solution for addressing water scarcity. It promotes practices within industries and promotes practices within industries. It assists in safeguarding the environment. One can pace ahead toward a greener future and embrace rainwater harvesting. It ensures responsible management of water resources.

FAQS

Is rainwater safe for industrial use?

Rainwater harvested from differently maintained systems can work as a safe option for non-potable industrial use. However, one must undergo appropriate filtration and treatment if required for potable purposes.

Do you think rainwater harvesting benefits smaller industries?

Of course, rainwater harvesting can turn out to be beneficial for industries of all sizes and offer cost savings and environmental benefits irrespective of the scale of operation.

Does rainwater harvesting need a lot of maintenance? 

Yes, rainwater harvesting requires a lot of maintenance. This is why proper design and upkeep maintenance requirements can easily turn out to be minimized.

Are there any government incentives for rainwater harvesting?

Yes, several governments and municipalities provide financial incentives, tax breaks, or rebates to encourage the adoption of rainwater harvesting systems.

Can rainwater harvesting help during droughts?

Yes, rainwater harvesting can easily provide a reliable alternative water source during droughts and reduce the strain on conventional water supplies.

Water Auditing Services

The global importance of resilient water management cannot be overstated. Water audit services play an important part in addressing these duties by monitoring water usage, identifying problems, and recommending efficient conservation measures. This in-depth study discusses the vital lighting performance of water rating services, as well as their process, grandeur, and real-world influence.

Water Auditing Services: Unveiling the Essentials

Water Auditing Services Explained

Water auditing services are comprehensive assessments carried out by professionals to evaluate water consumption patterns and practices in commercial, industrial, and residential settings. These audits provide a holistic view of water usage, pinpointing areas of wastage and suggesting tailored strategies for improvement.

The Process of Water Auditing

1. Initial Assessment: A certified auditor evaluates the facility's water consumption, examining historical data, water bills, and usage patterns.
2. On-Site Inspection: The auditor conducts a detailed on-site inspection, identifying leaks, inefficient fixtures, and potential sources of water loss.
3. Data Analysis: Collected data is analyzed to understand consumption patterns, peak usage times, and areas with the highest water demand.
4. Recommendations: Based on the analysis, the auditor formulates a set of recommendations that may include fixture upgrades, behavior modifications, and technology integrations.
5. Implementation: The recommendations are presented to the client, and upon approval, the suggested changes are implemented.

Benefits of Water Auditing Services

• Cost Savings: By identifying and rectifying wastage, businesses can significantly reduce water bills, contributing to substantial cost savings.
• Resource Conservation: Water audits promote responsible water use, conserving this precious resource for future generations.
• Environmental Impact: Reduced water consumption translates to a smaller carbon footprint, fostering eco-friendly practices.
• Regulatory Compliance: Many regions require businesses to adhere to water usage regulations; audits ensure compliance and avoid penalties.

Strategies for Effective Water Management

Leak Detection and Repair

Water leaks, even minor ones, can lead to substantial water wastage over time. Auditors employ cutting-edge technology to identify hidden leaks and recommend prompt repairs.

Efficient Fixture Upgrades

Replacing outdated fixtures with water-efficient alternatives, such as low-flow faucets and toilets, can dramatically reduce water consumption without compromising performance.

Behavioral Modifications

Educating employees and residents about responsible water usage habits can lead to long-term conservation and minimal wastage.

Landscape Optimization

For commercial properties, landscaping can be a major source of water use. Water audits suggest landscape designs that require less irrigation, minimizing outdoor water consumption.

Technology Integration

Incorporating smart water meters and sensors allows real-time monitoring of water usage, enabling quick detection of anomalies and facilitating immediate corrective actions.

Realizing the Impact: Success Stories

Corporate Responsibility in Action

In 2022, Retas Water Solutions Corporation, a leading manufacturer, partnered with a water auditing service to enhance its sustainability efforts. By implementing the recommended changes, the company reduced water consumption by 35%, leading to a substantial decrease in operational costs.

Sustainable Communities

The Green Valley Housing Complex undertook a water audit to address rising water bills and enhance residents' quality of life. Through a combination of fixture upgrades and behavioral changes, the complex achieved a 40% reduction in water usage, promoting a more sustainable and cost-effective living environment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly is a water audit? A water audit is a comprehensive evaluation of water consumption patterns in a facility to identify inefficiencies and recommend improvements.
2. Who can benefit from water auditing services? Businesses, industries, municipalities, and residential communities can all benefit from water auditing services.
3. How often should water audits be conducted? It is recommended to conduct water audits annually or whenever there are significant changes in water usage patterns.
4. Are water audits costly? While there is an upfront cost, the long-term savings from reduced water consumption and lower bills outweigh the initial investment.
5. Can water audits contribute to sustainability goals? Absolutely. Water audits play a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals by conserving water and promoting responsible usage.
6. What is the role of technology in water auditing? Technology, such as smart meters and sensors, enables real-time monitoring, early leak detection, and efficient water management.

Conclusion

Water auditing services stand as a beacon of hope in the quest for efficient water management. By identifying opportunities for conservation, reducing waste, and enhancing sustainability, these services pave the way for a more responsible and greener future. Embracing water audits not only benefits the bottom line but also reflects a commitment to preserving our planet's most precious resource.

Remember, water auditing services are not just a wise business choice; they are a moral imperative, ensuring a better world for generations to come.

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is one of the most practical methods to address our major concern of survival, that is water scarcity. With every passing day, our population is getting bigger and unfolding the bigger challenges to face. In order to solve one of the major issues related to water scarcity, rainwater harvesting is a result-driven solution. That’s why many rainwater harvesting company in Delhi NCR are putting their efforts into developing a robust system to supply rainwater most conveniently.

The Delhi government is actively working on harvesting rainwater to regulate the city's water supply and made it mandatory to install RWH systems in 2012. According to the Delhi Water and Sewer (Tariff and Metering) Regulations, 2012, if the RWH system is installed by the property, a 10% rebate is provided on the water bill. However, the deadline for installing the system has been extended to March 31, 2023.

Challenges of Rainwater Harvesting in Delhi

Slower growth pace

The current status of the RWH sector in Delhi demonstrates that the development and growth of rainwater harvesting are not satisfactory.  In many places, the RWH system is not installed or existing systems are not even maintained properly. Consequently, every monsoon season, a significant amount of water is lost in Delhi.

Currently, the Delhi government cannot meet the water needs of many residents due to inefficiencies in water management and low availability of raw water.

Poor maintenance of the existing system

Delhi Jal Board has issued guidelines for installing and maintaining RWH systems and allowed people to get rebates on water bills after showing furnish functionality certificates. But, many people did not follow the guidelines, resulting in a poor or dysfunctional system in many places.

Ineffective public support

As per Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, the successful development of the RWH system demands public support. If people don’t take the initiative seriously, the system will not work in future and the problem of proper water supply will not be solved.

Role of Rainwater Harvesting Companies in Delhi NCR

Companies that manage rainwater harvesting ensure the use of natural resources of water and make them available through sustainable processes. They offer services for all types of RWHs, depending on one’s requirements and exact specifications.

RWH companies offer the following services to resolve the issue of water supply in Delhi NCR:

• They help businesses and homeowners to collect, store, and use rainwater correctly. 
• They also take care of the availability of space and climate conditions to use harvested water.
• Designing and installation of RWH for clients is also managed by these companies.
• Companies also offer maintenance and repair services.
• For a positive outlook, companies are also providing education and outreach services to teach people about the benefits of water conservation.

Wrapping Up:

Rainwater harvesting is an effective solution to handle water scarcity issues. Companies that manage the installation and maintenance of RWH systems in Delhi are struggling to bring awareness among people. Hopefully, everything will go correctly if the public understands the importance of water conservation and the seriousness of water scarcity. Water is a vital element of our survival; so our efforts must be more serious and sincere towards rainwater harvesting.

We all know about rainwater harvesting in books, but the practicality depends on how much empirical knowledge we have. Water is the most precious resource we have on the planet. If we don’t start to infuse our minds and build a water conservation strategy, we cannot survive for longer. And that’s why people are looking for a rainwater harvesting company to find the solutions and implement a system into their location, especially in Hyderabad. Expertise in rainwater harvesting systems makes sure people can store and use rainwater.

According to annual data from the Meteorological Department, India receives rainfall of 1,180mm on average. About only 8% of rainwater is harvested. The fact is rainwater harvesting can fulfill 70% of the water requirements for a household. That’s the reason our government encourages people to adopt a rainwater harvesting system and utilize rainwater for household utilities. The government also provides subsidies if you choose to implement a rainwater harvesting system.

How does a rainwater harvesting company help?

While digging the depth of information about rainwater harvesting solutions, you can categorise them into two types: surface runoff water harvesting and groundwater recharge rainwater harvesting.

Surface runoff water harvesting solution.

In this method, rainwater, which is collected on the surface, can be stored for future use. When rain falls off your rooftops or any other surface, the flow can be diverted from small creeks and streams into reservoirs. The collected rainwater can be used for irrigation, cattle, and general domestic purposes.

If you are living in urban areas, surface runoff harvesting is the most suitable option for you. The following elements are essential for a rooftop rainwater harvesting solution: tubewell, recharge well, recharge trench, and recharge pit.

Groundwater recharge rainwater harvesting solution.

In the groundwater recharge method, water moves downward from surface water to groundwater. It is a hydrologic process through which water enters an aquifer. In this process, the aquifer acts as a distribution system. With artificial recharge techniques, groundwater aquifers get recharged with surplus rainwater.

This method is good for rural areas and requires a gully plug, contour bund, dugwell recharge, percolation tank, check dam/cement plug/nala bund, and recharge shaft.

Why do we opt for a rainwater harvesting system?

If you see the outcomes after implementing the rainwater harvesting techniques, you will implement the system in your area. The benefits of adopting a rainwater harvesting system are:

Less stress on water bills

The rainwater harvesting system is affordable and provides high-quality water. As it doesn’t depend on any water supply system, it is easy to maintain. It will help to lower your water bills.

Reduces erosion.

When rainwater collects in a particular space, it impacts soil erosion and increases the chances of flooding. The risk of flooding and erosion gets reduced with the harvesting system.

Environment-friendly practices

Rainwater harvesting system stores water underground and doesn’t require extra land to store the water. It also doesn’t require to displace the population.

In a nutshell, everyone needs to understand the significance of the rainwater harvesting system. It helps us to tackle the problems that could arise due to the scarcity of water. In addition, the system is sustainable and affordable to install in homes. So, you can look for a rainwater harvesting company in Hyderabad to get expert advice and install the system in your area or apartment.

Stormwater Management: Understand its Importance & Functioning

Rapid-growing urbanization and uncontrolled changes in the natural landscape raised major problems for Indian cities. Consequently, natural calamities like floods are gradually increasing every year in our urban and semi-urban areas, requiring effective improvement of drainage systems.

The Centre for Science and Environment has published a report for Hyderabad that talked about several flooding episodes. The city is the fastest-growing urban space in India as it recorded 5% population growth. In 2020, the city witnessed 200mm rainfall overnight. More than 76 people died and damaged the economy by around 1000 crores. And the ultimate cause is limited stormwater channels. Now, you can imagine the situation in other cities during heavy rainfall.

Stormwater management

Stormwater management is the process of controlling and usage of stormwater runoff. From planning for runoff to maintaining stormwater systems to streamlining its collection, storage, and movement, effective management covers all aspects of stormwater runoff. The design of drainage of cities and housing developments also comes under the management of stormwater.

With the primary objective of protecting our environment, stormwater management tackles the process of stormwater runoff. Generally, the water from rain and melting snow is referred to as stormwater. If we can build a strong stormwater management system, we can reduce flooding and protect people and property.

Objectives of stormwater management:

• Reduce demand on public stormwater drainage systems
• Support healthy streams and rivers
• Build healthier and more sustainable communities
• Offer environmental, social, and economic benefits to local communities.

Successful implementation of stormwater management ensures cleaner streams, wells, rivers, and lakes. It also reduces the risk of flooding and costs associated with it and increases the quality of life.

Stormwater Management: Types, Benefits, & Drawbacks of

Types of stormwater management

Stormwater management is designed to store and treat runoff water for further use. For further clarification, you can classify the system into two broad categories:

• Storage-type devices
• Infiltration type devices.

Storage type devices

• Detention ponds
• Retention pond
• On-site detention
• Rainwater harvesting
• Artificial landscapes

Detention ponds

We can store stormwater through natural depressions called detention ponds. These ponds may get dried when no precipitation happens. When you store water, the solids will settle at the bottom of the pond and should be removed from time to time. However, you cannot remove dissolved substances by this method.  Therefore, you can use detention ponds to control flood and water pollution.

Retention pond

As the word suggests, these ponds are used for the retention and treatment of polluted water. Through retention, the pollutants get removed and enhance the water quality. In these ponds, you can store water for 2 to 4 weeks. This is a cheap and effective method to store stormwater. Usually, they do not get dried.

On-site detention

In on-site detention, you can store water on the site of the property where it falls. It is mainly used in urban and residential areas. Furthermore, you can reuse or release the water slowly.

Rainwater harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is an effective method for urban and rural areas. It conserves portable water and reduces stormwater runoff. Generally, rainwater harvesting is used for irrigation and flushing toilets and can be used for drinking water only after treatment.

Artificial landscapes

Artificial landscapes are man-made habitats such as recreation, birdlife, and more. They are designed to streamline peak flows and are usually found in cities. With this method, we can improve the quality of surface runoff.

Infiltration type devices

• Infiltration trenches
• Grass filter types

Infiltration trenches

You need to dig shallow excavations and fill them with crushed stones of uniform size. Use geotextile to line the walls so that you can avoid the penetration of sand and silt. Once the stormwater infiltrates through the trenches, it reaches the subsoil and gets treated. Generally, you will find trenches beside streets and outdoor parking spaces.

Grass filter types

When the runoff water is used to cultivate plants and grass, its velocity decreases. It traps the sediments and increases the infiltration.

Benefits of Stormwater management

• Proper drainage of surface water runoff
• Early treatment of stormwater
• Prevent floods and damage to infrastructure
• May recharge groundwater and reuse precipitation water and surface run-off
• Can integrate into the urban landscape and offer green as well as recreational areas.

Drawbacks of stormwater management

• Proper maintenance, implementation, operation, and expert planning are required.
• Enough labour and operation are required accordingly.
• Due to high sedimentation rates, the risk of clogging infiltration systems is there.

Efficient and effective stormwater management ensures the proper functioning of roads and other infrastructure. It also enhances environmentally sensitive planning and quality of life in cities.

We need a properly planned approach for the effective management of stormwater that should be based on the principles of urban watershed management. It enables us to maintain the quality and life of infrastructure and overall standard of living. It also boosts the capability of a city to lower the risks of flood disasters when there is high-intensity rain. Therefore, we need an expert panel of hydrologists, engineers and environment experts.

Do you know the water situation in our country? Are you aware that today's water stress is affecting the situation worldwide?

According to UNICEF data, 50% of the world's population could be living in areas facing water scarcity by as early as 2025. Roughly 1 in 4 children is expected to live in areas of extremely high water stress by 2040 across the world.

India has only 4% of its water resources to feed the 1.3 billion people which makes us the most water-stressed country in the world. Our increasing dependence on erratic monsoons for water requirements makes our situation more challenging. Due to climate change, the pressure on water resources has intensified and consequently, we are facing the situation of floods and droughts in different areas of the country.

Indian Cities Face a Scary Water Crisis

Apart from Bangalore, there are many more cities in India facing the worst situation of water availability. According to NITI Aayog, India has a composite water management index, showing 21 major cities are on the verge of depleting their groundwater. Let’s evaluate the situation of 6 prominent cities of India to understand the situation pensively:

Mumbai

Fighting with daily water management, Mumbai is facing the pinch of water scarcity. The taps run dry 15% of the time and climate change is fueling the situation negatively.

The city faces the situation of water shortage due to erratic rainfall patterns, high water demand, and reduced water supply. The situation is getting worse because of inefficient water management, rapid urbanisation, and inadequate infrastructure.

Keeping the overall situation in mind, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has already cut the water supply by 15% due to non-operational pumps. The situation of water cut is getting worse due to the dwindling water stocks in the seven lakes and a lack of alternative water sources

Bathinda

With overexploitation of agriculture and diminishing groundwater reserves, Bathinda is in a dangerous situation. Moreover, the elevated levels of alkalinity, fluoride, uranium and nitrate degrade the quality of water in Bathinda and put the lives of people in danger.

Another crucial factor of the worst water condition in Bathinda is how Punjabi farmers are depleting the region’s aquifers. This is because the maximum land in the city is used for agriculture.

Furthermore, the state is also facing problems due to inefficient water management systems. And, the government has failed to find the exact solution and farmers remain without access to canal water.

Chennai

Chennai was in the news for 4 years in a row for having a serious water problem in the city. Unfortunately, the geography of the city is not supported at all. In the city, rainfall is uneven, with up to 90% falling during the northeast monsoon season.

If rains fail to hit the city on time, the city must rely on huge desalination plants and water piped in from hundreds of kilometres away. Rapid industrialisation and urbanisation make the situation worse.

Lucknow

Impending water scarcity in Lucknow has raised the alarm and compelled our government to make significant changes. The extraction of groundwater by the public is to 1/3 of the Bhakra Nangal dam’s capacity annually in order to meet their water demands.

Additionally, millions of litres of groundwater are extracted from 750 government and 550 private tubewells. Due to erratic rainfall, the water is not getting recharged which creates water stress in the city.

Once, Lucknow was also called the city of ponds but water bodies have vanished now.

Delhi

Every summer brings bad news for the Capital of India as 60% of water supplied by the Delhi Jal Board is sourced from the polluted Yamuna. The contamination of the Yamuna and groundwater depletion degrades the water quality.

Due to improper rainfall and industrialization, the city is facing worse conditions of water scarcity. Therefore, residents are advised to store sufficient quantities of water in advance as per requirement. The government is providing the facility of water tankers to meet the water demands.

Jaipur

The city of Jaipur has faced a significant challenge in meeting its water needs due to the rapidly increasing population and industrialization. In the past, the Ramgarh Dam served as the primary source of surface water. However, by the late 1980s and early 1990s, the dam was no longer deemed a viable source of water, and the city had to rely solely on groundwater. As a result, the aquifers have been depleted at an alarming rate, exacerbating the water scarcity crisis in the city.

Rainwater Harvesting is the only solution

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