India is home to varied terrain and it poses a lot of challenges when it comes to water conservation and usage. Rapid urbanization and unchecked water pollution are putting enormous pressure on the quantity and quality of surface and groundwater. Rainwater harvesting is probably the one solution that can help conserve water and increase the groundwater level.
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The practice of water conservation is deep-rooted in the science of ancient India. Here we look at five traditional water conservation systems.
1. Jhalaras:
Human-made rectangular-shaped step-wells are commonly found in Rajasthan and Gujarat. A popular model to harvest rainwater in Rajasthan, the wells have tiered steps on three or four sides. Apart from rainwater, these step wells collect the seepages from upstream reservoirs and lakes.
2. Talabs:
These are small ponds like reservoirs that collect and store rainwater for household consumption and drinking purposes. Pokhariyan pond at Tikamgarh in Madhya Pradesh is a perfect example of natural Talabs, while the lakes of Udaipur are perfect examples of man-made Talabs. A medium reservoir is called a Bandhi.
3. Bawaris:
3. Bawaris:
Part of the ancient network of rainwater storage tanks in Rajasthan, Bawaris are unique step wells. Well connected by canals, the tanks collect the rainwater the region receives during the short rainy season. The tanks also help to raise the water table.
4. Jackwells:
4. Jackwells:
The rainwater harvesting system was used by the Shompen tribe of the Great Nicobar Islands. The low-lying part of the island is covered with jack wells which are pits encircled by bunds made from logs of hardwood. Cut bamboo is placed on a gentle slope with the lower end leading the water into the jack well.
5. Ramtek model:
5. Ramtek model:
An intricate network of groundwater and surface water bodies, it is named after the town of Ramtek in Maharashtra. The tanks are connected by underground and surface canals that extend from the foothills to the plains. Once tanks located in the hills are filled to capacity, the water flows down to fill successive tanks, generally ending in a small water hole.