WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

MODULE 3 GROUNDWATER RECHARGE

Groundwater recharge is the process of water moving from the surface to underground, replenishing
the groundwater supply. It's the primary way water enters an aquifer. Groundwater recharge is the
process by which water moves downward from the surface and infiltrates into aquifers, replenishing
groundwater supplies. This process is crucial for maintaining groundwater levels and ensuring a
sustainable water supply, especially in areas reliant on groundwater for drinking water, agriculture, and
industry.

Types of Groundwater Recharge

• Natural recharge
Water from precipitation infiltrates the soil and percolates towards the water table OR Occurs through
precipitation, river seepage, and the infiltration of surface water into the soil.
• Artificial recharge

Human-controlled methods increase the amount of water that enters an aquifer.

Human-engineered methods such as:

• Recharge basins – Shallow ponds designed to increase infiltration. Redirecting water across the
land using canals, ponds, or infiltration basins

• Injection wells – Directly inject water into aquifers. Injecting water directly into the subsurface
using injection wells

• Check dams – Slow down surface runoff, allowing more infiltration. Adding irrigation furrows or
sprinkler systems

• Rainwater harvesting – Collects and directs rainwater into the ground.

Importance of Groundwater Recharge

• Sustains water supplies for drinking, irrigation, and industry.

• Helps maintain river flows and wetlands.

• Reduces land subsidence caused by excessive groundwater withdrawal.

• Prevents saltwater intrusion in coastal aquifers.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

FACTORS AFFECTING RECHARGE

• Evapotranspiration: Affects the amount of water that reaches the

groundwater. Evapotranspiration is the combined process of evaporation from land surfaces and
water bodies, along with transpiration from plants. It plays a crucial role in determining how
much water is available for infiltration and groundwater recharge. High evapotranspiration rates
occur in hot and dry regions where intense sunlight and strong winds increase water loss from
soil and vegetation. In contrast, cooler and humid climates experience lower evapotranspiration,
allowing more water to remain in the soil for infiltration. Vegetation cover also influences
evapotranspiration; forests and crops release significant amounts of water through
transpiration, potentially reducing the amount of water reaching the groundwater table.
However, plants also contribute to infiltration by improving soil structure and reducing runoff,
creating a balance between water loss and recharge.

• Aridity: Recharge is most sensitive to changes in the transition zone from humid to arid climates.
Aridity refers to the dryness of a region and is typically associated with low rainfall and high
evaporation rates. In arid and semi-arid regions, groundwater recharge is naturally limited
because rainfall is scarce and often lost through rapid evaporation before it can percolate into
the soil. The lack of vegetation in these areas further exacerbates runoff and soil erosion,
reducing infiltration capacity. However, some arid regions have natural recharge mechanisms,
such as flash floods or seasonal river flows, which temporarily replenish groundwater supplies.
Human interventions, such as managed aquifer recharge (MAR) techniques, can help increase
groundwater replenishment in these regions by capturing and directing available water into
recharge zones.

• Precipitation: Recharge shows a stronger response to changes in precipitation than to changes

in potential evapotranspiration. Precipitation is the primary source of groundwater recharge,
and its amount, intensity, and distribution greatly impact infiltration rates. Heavy and intense
rainfall can lead to surface runoff, reducing the opportunity for water to seep into the ground.
On the other hand, moderate and prolonged rainfall allows for gradual infiltration, promoting
better groundwater recharge. The seasonal distribution of precipitation also plays a role; regions
experiencing concentrated monsoon seasons may struggle with effective recharge due to rapid

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

runoff, whereas areas with evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year benefit from sustained
infiltration. Additionally, precipitation in the form of snow can contribute to recharge when it
melts, releasing water that slowly percolates into the soil. Changes in precipitation patterns due
to climate change can alter recharge rates, making it essential to implement water conservation
and recharge strategies to maintain groundwater sustainability.

• Soil Type and Permeability: The ability of water to infiltrate into the ground largely depends on
soil type and permeability. Sandy and loamy soils have large, well-connected pores that allow
water to move downward easily, promoting higher recharge rates. In contrast, clayey soils have
tiny, compacted particles that slow down water movement, reducing infiltration and causing
surface runoff. Additionally, fractured rocks and porous geological formations such as limestone
and sandstone facilitate rapid groundwater recharge, whereas non-porous rocks like granite act
as barriers.

• Vegetation Cover: The presence of vegetation plays a crucial role in groundwater recharge.
Plants help enhance infiltration by reducing surface runoff and allowing more water to percolate
into the soil. Their roots create pathways that improve soil porosity and water retention.
However, vegetation also consumes water through transpiration, which can reduce the amount
of water reaching the groundwater table. Forested areas generally contribute to better
groundwater recharge than barren lands, as they help slow down water movement, reducing
erosion and promoting gradual infiltration.

• Topography: The physical characteristics of the land surface, such as slope and elevation,
influence groundwater recharge. Flat or gently sloping areas tend to promote infiltration as
water has more time to seep into the ground. In contrast, steep slopes cause rapid runoff,
preventing water from soaking into the soil and reducing recharge potential. Depressions,
valleys, and low-lying areas can act as natural recharge zones by collecting water and allowing it
to percolate downward. Human interventions like constructing recharge structures in suitable
topographies can enhance groundwater replenishment.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

• Climate and Precipitation Patterns : The amount and distribution of rainfall significantly impact
groundwater recharge. Regions with high and consistent rainfall experience better recharge
compared to arid and semi-arid regions, where rainfall is infrequent and often lost to
evaporation. Seasonal variations also play a role; for example, monsoon-driven regions receive
large volumes of water in short periods, leading to quick infiltration in suitable areas, while
prolonged dry periods can cause groundwater depletion. Additionally, factors such as
temperature and humidity affect evaporation rates, further influencing the availability of water
for recharge.

• Human Activities: Anthropogenic factors can either enhance or hinder groundwater recharge.
Urbanization, characterized by the expansion of impermeable surfaces such as roads and
buildings, reduces natural infiltration and increases surface runoff, often directing water away
from recharge zones. Deforestation leads to soil compaction and higher erosion, decreasing
recharge potential. Over-extraction of groundwater for agriculture, industry, and domestic use
can lower water tables beyond natural replenishment rates. However, sustainable water
management practices, such as rainwater harvesting, artificial recharge techniques, and
afforestation, can significantly improve groundwater recharge and help maintain balance in
water resources.

REVIVAL OF TRADITIONAL TECHNIQUES FOR WATER HARVESTING

The "revival of traditional water harvesting techniques in India" refers to the ongoing effort to
bring back and reimplement ancient methods like building "taankas" (underground storage pits),
"johads" (small earthen dams), "baoris" (stepwells), and "ahars" (floodwater harvesting systems) to
conserve rainwater and recharge groundwater, particularly in regions facing water scarcity, especially in
states like Rajasthan and Bihar, by utilizing local knowledge and community participation.

Water harvesting has been an essential practice in human civilizations for centuries, especially in
regions facing water scarcity. Many traditional water conservation techniques were well-adapted to
local climatic and geographical conditions, ensuring sustainable water availability. With increasing water
shortages due to climate change and over-extraction of groundwater, there has been a renewed interest
in reviving these traditional methods.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

Key points about reviving traditional water harvesting techniques in India:

• Examples of traditional techniques:

• Taanka: A circular underground pit in Rajasthan, primarily used to store rainwater from
rooftops.

• Johad: Small earthen check dams that capture rainwater and improve groundwater
recharge, commonly found in Rajasthan and Karnataka.

• Bawri: A stepwell structure that collects rainwater and allows it to percolate into the
ground, prevalent in Rajasthan.

• Ahar-Pynes: A floodwater harvesting system in Bihar, where embankments are built

along rivers to store floodwater for irrigation.

• Kuls and Guls: Channels built in hilly regions to divert water for irrigation, prevalent in
the Himalayas.

• Benefits of revival:

• Improved groundwater recharge: These traditional systems effectively replenish

groundwater levels, mitigating water scarcity during dry seasons.

• Sustainable water management: They rely on natural water flows and local materials,
promoting environmentally friendly practices.

• Community involvement: Local communities often take ownership of these systems,

ensuring their maintenance and sustainability.

• Challenges to revival:

• Lack of awareness: Many people are unaware of the benefits and practices of traditional
water harvesting techniques.

• Urbanization and land use changes: Encroachment on traditional water bodies due to
rapid development.

• Poor maintenance: Existing systems may be neglected due to lack of proper upkeep.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

• Government initiatives:

• National Water Policy: Promotes the revival of traditional water harvesting structures
through state-level implementation.

• Community-based projects: Several NGOs and government agencies are supporting

initiatives to revive traditional water harvesting systems by involving local communities.

TRADITIONAL WATER HARVESTING TECHNIQUES AND THEIR REVIVAL

1. Johads (Haryana, Rajasthan)

Johads are small earthen check dams constructed to capture and store rainwater, allowing it to
percolate into the ground. They have been used in arid regions of Rajasthan and Haryana to recharge
groundwater and improve soil moisture.

Revival Efforts:

• NGOs like Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) have successfully revived thousands of Johads, leading to
increased groundwater levels in Rajasthan.

• Community-led initiatives are restoring abandoned Johads to improve water security.

▪ New designs incorporate modern engineering to enhance their efficiency.

Diagram of a Johad System:

(A cross-section showing a small earthen embankment with a water collection area, promoting
infiltration into the aquifer.)

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

2. Stepwells (Baolis or Vavs – Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, MP)

Stepwells are large, elaborately designed wells with steps leading down to the water level. They
functioned as both water storage systems and community gathering places.

Revival Efforts:

• Heritage conservation projects are restoring old stepwells to their functional state.

• Some stepwells are being linked to rainwater harvesting systems in urban areas.

• Governments and NGOs are promoting their use in modern water conservation.

Illustration of a Stepwell:
(An architectural diagram showing the descending steps, water reservoir, and infiltration system.)

3. Zabo System (Nagaland)

The Zabo system is a unique water harvesting method practiced in Nagaland that integrates
forest conservation, livestock rearing, and agriculture. Rainwater is collected in small reservoirs on
hilltops, preventing soil erosion and ensuring year-round water supply for farming.

Revival Efforts:

• Sustainable farming projects are encouraging Zabo-like techniques in hilly regions.

• Agroforestry initiatives are promoting integrated land and water management inspired by Zabo.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

Diagram of a Zabo System:

(A flowchart-style diagram showing the flow of rainwater from forests to small reservoirs and finally to
agricultural fields.)

4. Kunds (Thar Desert, Rajasthan and Gujarat)

Kunds are underground circular water harvesting structures designed to collect and store rainwater in
arid regions. They have a gently sloping catchment area that directs rainwater into an underground
tank, preventing evaporation.

Revival Efforts:

• Modified Kunds are being constructed with improved lining materials to reduce seepage losses.

• Rooftop rainwater harvesting is being integrated with Kunds in rural areas.

• Government initiatives are funding the revival of Kunds in water-stressed villages.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

Illustration of a Kund System:

(A cross-section diagram showing the sloping catchment, water collection inlet, and underground
storage tank.)

5. Bamboo Drip Irrigation (Meghalaya)

This traditional method uses hollow bamboo pipes to transport water from natural springs to
agricultural fields by gravity. It is an eco-friendly and highly efficient irrigation system.

Revival Efforts:

• The system is being adapted for modern small-scale irrigation needs.

• Researchers are promoting bamboo-based water distribution systems as sustainable alternatives

to plastic pipes.

(An illustration showing interconnected bamboo pipes channeling water to terraced fields.)

6. Eri System (Tamil Nadu)

The Eri system is an ancient tank irrigation method that captures monsoon rains for agricultural
use. These tanks help in groundwater recharge, flood control, and ecosystem maintenance.

Revival Efforts:

• The Tamil Nadu government is restoring Eris under the Kudimaramathu scheme (community-led
restoration of water bodies).

• Urban planners are incorporating Eris into city stormwater management.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore
WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

Diagram of an Eri System:

(A schematic showing interconnected tanks collecting runoff and recharging groundwater.)

Reviving traditional water harvesting methods is crucial for addressing water scarcity and
improving groundwater recharge. These techniques, developed over centuries, are cost-effective,
environmentally friendly, and well-suited to local conditions. By integrating traditional wisdom with
modern technology, communities can ensure water security while preserving cultural heritage.

The revival of traditional water harvesting techniques is essential for sustainable water
management, especially in regions facing water scarcity. These indigenous methods, developed over
centuries, are not only environmentally friendly but also cost-effective and culturally significant. Unlike
modern infrastructure, which often disrupts natural ecosystems, traditional systems work in harmony
with nature by enhancing groundwater recharge, reducing runoff, and preventing soil erosion.

By integrating these age-old practices with modern technology, we can improve their efficiency
and adapt them to contemporary needs. Community participation is crucial in this process, as many of
these systems were historically maintained by local people. Reviving them fosters a sense of
responsibility and ownership, ensuring their long-term sustainability.

Additionally, climate change has made water conservation more critical than ever. With erratic
rainfall patterns and increasing droughts, these traditional techniques can help build climate resilience
by ensuring year-round water availability. Government policies, financial support, and awareness
campaigns can further promote their widespread adoption.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

In conclusion, combining traditional wisdom with scientific advancements can create a more
sustainable water future. As we look for solutions to the global water crisis, reviving and modernizing
these ancient water conservation methods offers a practical and effective way forward.

CALCULATION OF AVAILABLE RAIN FOR WATER HARVESTING

Water harvesting is an essential technique to ensure sustainable water management, especially in

areas facing water scarcity. To determine how much rainwater can be harvested, we use a basic
formula:

Rainwater Harvested=Rainfall×Catchment Area×Runoff Coefficient

Where:

• Rainfall (mm or meters) – Total annual or seasonal rainfall in a given area.

• Catchment Area (m²) – The surface area from which rainwater is collected (e.g., rooftops, open
grounds, roads).
• Runoff Coefficient – A factor representing how much rainwater is actually collected, accounting
for losses like evaporation, absorption, and spillage. It varies based on the surface type:
o Rooftops: 0.75 – 0.95
o Concrete surfaces: 0.70 – 0.90
o Bare soil: 0.10 – 0.40
o Agricultural fields: 0.20 – 0.50

Example 1: Rainwater Harvesting from a Rooftop

Given Data:

• Roof Area = 100 m²

• Annual Rainfall = 800 mm (0.8 m)
• Runoff Coefficient = 0.85 (for tiled rooftops)

Using the formula:

Harvested Water=0.8×100×0.85
=68 cubic meters (68,000 liters per year)

Thus, a 100 m² rooftop in an area with 800 mm annual rainfall can collect 68,000 liters of rainwater in
a year.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

Example 2: Rainwater Harvesting from an Open Ground in a Village

Given Data:
• Catchment Area = 5000 m² (village land)
• Annual Rainfall = 1000 mm (1.0 m)
• Runoff Coefficient = 0.30 (partly sandy soil)
Harvested Water=1.0×5000×0.30
=1500 cubic meters (1,500,000 liters per year)
Thus, a 5000 m² open land in a village can capture 1.5 million liters of rainwater annually.

Case Studies of Successful Water Harvesting

Case Study 1: Rainwater Harvesting in Urban India (Chennai, Tamil Nadu)

Chennai experiences erratic rainfall and frequent water shortages. The government mandated rooftop
rainwater harvesting in 2003, leading to a significant rise in groundwater levels.
• Average household (120 m² roof) with 1200 mm rainfall collects around 1,22,400 liters per
year.
• Groundwater tables increased by 50% in some areas, reducing the city’s dependency on
external water sources.

Diagram: A schematic showing rooftop rainwater harvesting with pipes leading to an underground
storage tank and groundwater recharge pit.

Case Study 2: Johads in Rajasthan – Alwar District

Johads (earthen check dams) have been revived in Alwar, Rajasthan to capture monsoon rain.
• 4000+ Johads were built across 1000 villages, restoring 13 rivers that had dried up.
Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore
WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

• Rainfall infiltrates the ground, recharging aquifers and supporting agriculture even during
droughts.

Diagram: A cross-section showing Johad capturing rainwater and recharging groundwater tables.

Case Study 3: Eri System in Tamil Nadu

The Eri system of water tanks, traditionally used for irrigation, captures monsoon runoff efficiently.
• Tamil Nadu has 39,000+ tanks covering 100,000+ hectares.
• Restoration of Eris has increased crop productivity and improved groundwater levels.

Diagram: A flowchart of an Eri system, showing water flow from hills to storage tanks and fields.

Rainwater harvesting is a practical solution for water conservation in both urban and rural settings. By
using simple calculations, communities can estimate their potential water savings and implement
efficient collection systems. Case studies from Chennai, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu demonstrate how
reviving traditional and modern harvesting methods can address water shortages and enhance
sustainability.
Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore
WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

PREPARATION OF SUITABLE DRAWING AND DESIGN OF RAINWATER HARVESTING STRUCTURE

Designing an effective rainwater harvesting system requires a well-planned drawing that includes key
structural components. The design depends on factors such as catchment area, rainfall data, water
demand, and site conditions. Below are the essential steps involved in preparing a suitable drawing
and design for rainwater harvesting structures.

1. Site Analysis and Data Collection

Before designing an efficient rainwater harvesting system, a thorough site analysis and data collection
process is necessary. This ensures that the system is designed to maximize rainwater collection,
optimize storage capacity, and enhance groundwater recharge. Below are the key factors to be
considered in detail:
1. Rainfall Data (Annual Average Rainfall in mm)
The amount of rainfall received in a given area is the most critical factor in designing a rainwater
harvesting system. Rainfall data is usually obtained from meteorological records, government
agencies, or local weather monitoring stations.
Key Aspects to Consider:
• Annual Rainfall: Measured in millimeters (mm) or meters (m). This is the total amount of rain
received in a year.
• Seasonal Variation: Some regions experience heavy rainfall in a short period (monsoons), while
others receive evenly distributed rainfall throughout the year.
• Intensity & Duration: Heavy but short-duration rains may lead to more runoff, whereas light
and prolonged rains enhance infiltration into the ground
. Example:
• Chennai, India receives an average annual rainfall of 1400 mm.
• Rajasthan, India has an annual rainfall of 200–500 mm, making rainwater harvesting crucial for
water availability.

2. Catchment Area Size (m²) - Rooftops, Open Land, Roads

The catchment area is the surface from which rainwater is collected. The size and type of catchment
area significantly affect the amount of water harvested.
Types of Catchment Areas:
1. Rooftop Catchments:

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

o Commonly used in urban areas for household or institutional rainwater harvesting.

o Clean and free from contaminants when properly maintained.
o Example: Houses, apartments, schools, offices.
2. Open Land & Agricultural Fields:
o Captures rainwater and allows percolation for groundwater recharge.
o Suitable for check dams, farm ponds, and percolation pits.
3. Paved Surfaces & Roads:
o Can be used to divert runoff into collection tanks or recharge wells.
o Useful in urban settings where open land is limited.
o Example Calculation:
If a 200 m² rooftop receives 1000 mm of rain annually:
Harvested Water=200×1.0=200 cubic meters(200,000liters)
This means a 200 m² rooftop can collect 200,000 liters of rainwater in a year.

3. Runoff Coefficient (Depends on Surface Type)

Not all rainwater falling on a surface is collected—some of it is lost due to infiltration, evaporation, or
absorption. The Runoff Coefficient (C) is a factor that determines the efficiency of different surfaces in
collecting rainwater.
Typical Runoff Coefficients:

Surface Type Runoff Coefficient (C)

Tiled/RCC rooftops 0.75 – 0.95

Concrete/paved surfaces 0.70 – 0.90

Rocky surfaces 0.60 – 0.80

Bare soil 0.10 – 0.40

Agricultural fields 0.20 – 0.50

Grass-covered land 0.10 – 0.30

Example:
• A metal sheet rooftop (C = 0.90) will yield 90% of the total rainfall for harvesting.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

• A bare soil area (C = 0.30) will absorb more water, leading to lower runoff.

4. Soil Permeability (Important for Groundwater Recharge)

Soil permeability determines how well water can percolate into the ground. This is crucial for designing
recharge pits, check dams, and percolation wells to replenish groundwater levels.
Soil Types & Their Impact on Water Harvesting:

Soil Type Permeability Rate Suitability for Recharge

Sandy Soil High Excellent for recharge

Loamy Soil Moderate Good for storage & recharge

Clayey Soil Low Poor recharge, requires artificial recharge methods

Example:
• Sandy soil in Rajasthan absorbs water quickly, making it suitable for deep groundwater
recharge.
• Clayey soil in Tamil Nadu has poor permeability, so storage tanks are preferred over recharge
pits.

5. Water Demand Calculation (Based on Population & Usage Needs)

The harvested rainwater must meet local water demand for domestic, agricultural, or industrial
purposes.
Steps to Calculate Water Demand:
1. Household Demand
o Daily water requirement per person = 135 liters/day (as per Indian standards).
o If a family has 5 members, their monthly water demand is:
135×5×30=20,250 liters per month
2. Agricultural Demand
o Crop water requirement depends on factors like climate, soil, and crop type.
o Example: Wheat requires 450 mm of water per season for optimal growth.
3. Institutional & Industrial Demand
o Schools, factories, and commercial buildings have higher water needs.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

Example:
If a 100,000-liter tank is designed for a household with 5 members, it can provide 4–5 months of
water supply, depending on usage.
A successful rainwater harvesting system requires careful site analysis and data collection to maximize
efficiency. Factors such as rainfall levels, catchment area size, surface type, soil permeability, and
water demand influence the system design. With proper planning, rainwater harvesting can provide a
sustainable water supply, reduce dependence on external sources, and improve groundwater recharge
Basic Components of a Rainwater Harvesting System
A well-designed rainwater harvesting system consists of several key components that work together to
collect, filter, store, and utilize rainwater efficiently. Below is a detailed explanation of each
component:

A. Catchment Area
The catchment area is the surface that collects rainwater. The efficiency of rainwater harvesting largely
depends on the quality, type, and maintenance of the catchment area.
Types of Catchment Areas
1. Rooftop Catchment
o Most common in urban and residential settings.
o Includes sloped or flat roofs made of concrete, metal sheets, or tiles.
o Water from rooftops is relatively clean and requires minimal treatment.
2. Open Land & Agricultural Fields
o Suitable for large-scale rainwater harvesting in rural areas.
o Water can be directed to farm ponds, percolation pits, or check dams.
o Needs proper leveling and bunding to reduce runoff loss.
3. Paved Surfaces & Roads
o Roads and pavements can be used to divert rainwater to storage tanks or recharge pits.
o Requires proper slope and drainage channels to avoid waterlogging.
o Example:
A 200 m² concrete rooftop receiving 1000 mm of rainfall annually can potentially
harvest:
Harvested Water=200×1.0×0.9=180,000 liters per year
(Assuming a runoff coefficient of 0.9 for concrete rooftops).

B. Conveyance System
The conveyance system transfers the rainwater collected from the catchment area to the filtration unit
or storage tank. It consists of:
1. Gutters & Downpipes
o Installed along roof edges to collect and channel rainwater.
o Should have a proper slope (1:100) for smooth water flow.
o Made of PVC, metal, or concrete.
2. First-Flush System
Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore
WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

o A diversion system that removes the initial dirty water containing dust, bird droppings,
and other impurities.
o Prevents contamination of stored water.
o Works with a manually operated valve or automatic diverter.
3. Drainage Channels
o Used in ground-based catchment systems (roads, parking areas).
o Prevents water stagnation and directs flow towards collection points.
Example:
A house with a 10 m × 10 m roof should have a gutter slope of 10 cm per 10 m to ensure efficient
drainage.

C. Filtration Unit
Before storing rainwater, it must be filtered to remove impurities such as leaves, dirt, and sediments.
Types of Filtration Units
1. Gravel, Sand, and Charcoal Filters
o Removes solid particles and organic matter.
o Gravel layer traps large debris.
o Sand layer removes fine sediments.
o Charcoal layer absorbs odor and chemicals.
2. Screen Filters
o Mesh screens installed in gutters or pipes.
o Blocks large debris before it enters the storage system.
3. Sedimentation Tanks
o Allows suspended particles to settle at the bottom before water moves to storage
tanks.
Example:
A multi-layer filtration system with 5 cm gravel, 10 cm sand, and 10 cm charcoal can effectively clean
harvested rainwater for household use.

D. Storage Tank / Recharge System

Once filtered, the water is either stored for direct use or infiltrated into the ground for groundwater
recharge.
1. Storage Tanks
Used for drinking, domestic, or irrigation purposes.
• Overhead Tanks: Elevated structures that supply water via gravity.
• Underground Tanks: Saves space and maintains a stable temperature.
• Material: Made from plastic (HDPE), concrete, or metal.
• Capacity: Depends on rainfall and water demand.
2. Groundwater Recharge Systems
• Used in areas with low water tables or declining groundwater levels.
• Rainwater is directed into:
o Recharge Pits: Small, unlined pits filled with gravel and sand.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore

WATER CONSERVATION AND RAIN WATER HARVESTING BCV654A

o Recharge Wells: Deep borewells allowing water to seep underground.

o Percolation Tanks: Large open reservoirs allowing slow infiltration.
3. Overflow System
• Prevents water loss once the tank reaches full capacity.
• Excess water is directed to recharge pits or used for landscaping.
Example Calculation:
If a family needs 500 liters per day, an underground storage tank for 3 months of water supply should
have:
500×90=45,000 liters capacity500 \times 90 = 45,000 \text{ liters
capacity}500×90=45,000 liters capacity
A well-designed rainwater harvesting system includes a properly maintained catchment area, a well-
planned conveyance system, an efficient filtration unit, and a reliable storage or recharge system. The
right combination of these components ensures maximum water collection, reduces wastage, and
promotes sustainable water management.

3. Design Calculation Example

Assumption:
• Rooftop area = 100 m²
• Rainfall = 800 mm/year (0.8 m)
• Runoff coefficient = 0.85
Rainwater Harvested=Rainfall × Catchment Area × Runoff Coefficient
=68 cubic meters (68,000 liters per year)
Thus, the system should be designed to store at least 68,000 liters annually or allow excess water to
recharge the ground.

Here is the detailed engineering drawing of a rainwater harvesting system. It includes a rooftop
catchment, conveyance system, filtration unit, storage tank, and groundwater recharge pit.

Dhanashree N Nerlikar, Dept of Civil Engineering. VVIT Bangalore