In an effort to address water scarcity and groundwater depletion, the Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) has introduced a comprehensive Rainwater Harvesting Scheme (RWHS). This initiative aims to encourage residents, particularly those owning larger properties, to implement rainwater harvesting pits as a way to recharge the groundwater levels. This article highlights the key aspects of this scheme and outlines its importance for the future sustainability of water resources in the region.
HMWSSB’s Advisory Role in Implementing Rainwater Harvesting
The HMWSSB plays a pivotal advisory role in ensuring that all new and existing water consumers adopt rainwater harvesting techniques. Those seeking new water connections or currently receiving services are advised to construct Rainwater Harvesting Pits (RWH Pits). This measure is particularly mandatory for houses with an area of 300 square meters or more.
The Water Supply Sanction Letter issued by the HMWSSB contains a crucial condition stipulating that any property with a minimum area of 300 square meters must install an RWH pit. To ensure compliance, divisional offices conduct regular inspections, advising homeowners on the correct procedures for building and maintaining these pits.
Survey on Rainwater Harvesting Structures
In line with the World Water Day initiative launched on March 22, 2024, HMWSSB has developed an app to conduct surveys on the presence of rainwater harvesting structures. The app collects data based on Consumer Account Numbers (CANs) for properties of 300 square meters and above. The findings from this ongoing survey, as of July 14, 2024, reveal that:
- Total targeted premises: 42,784
- Survey conducted on: 25,578 premises
- Premises with existing RWH pits: 12,446
- Premises without RWH pits: 13,132
For properties that have not yet installed RWH pits, HMWSSB provides technical support through qualified geologists. This ensures that consumers are equipped with the right knowledge and resources to implement the structures.
Special Drive for Rainwater Harvesting: October 2024
To address the growing concern over groundwater depletion, HMWSSB is launching a Special Drive starting on October 2, 2024. This initiative, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanthi, aims to intensify efforts towards educating the public on the significance of rainwater harvesting.
Key Objectives of the Special Drive:
- Public Education: The drive will focus on educating both the general public and specific HMWSSB consumers about the critical role of rainwater harvesting in mitigating water scarcity. The campaign will emphasize scientific methods to recharge groundwater effectively.
- Awareness Campaigns: Various public awareness programs will be launched across the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) and the area up to the Outer Ring Road (ORR). These programs will highlight the importance of rainwater harvesting and provide practical advice on how to implement the scheme.
- Mandatory Construction of RWH Pits:
- All buildings and houses occupying an area of 300 square yards or more will be required to construct rainwater harvesting pits.
- Important public places will also be identified for the installation of RWH pits and Injection Wells, ensuring adherence to proper scientific methods and safety measures.
- Focus on High Water Consumers: Consumers who frequently rely on water tankers, especially during the dry summer months (February to May), will be specifically targeted. These consumers will be directed to install RWH pits without exception.
Collaboration with NGOs and Technological Integration
HMWSSB has partnered with 18 NGOs to facilitate the survey process and ensure thorough data collection. These NGOs will assess individual properties, feeding the collected data into a specially designed app. The app will track which houses have installed RWH pits and which still need to comply.
This technological integration ensures that all properties of 300 square meters or more are accounted for, further streamlining the process of rainwater harvesting implementation.
Free Drinking Water Scheme and Rainwater Harvesting
In December 2022, HMWSSB introduced a scheme that provides 20,000 liters of free drinking water to domestic households. Beneficiaries of this program are encouraged to reinvest the money saved on drinking water into constructing RWH pits. This approach not only provides a financial incentive but also fosters a culture of sustainable water management.
Advisory Letters and Penalties for Non-Compliance
Based on data collected through the app, Divisional Offices will issue advisory letters to consumers. These letters will prompt them to either construct or repair their RWH pits. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in penalties. Starting January 2025, consumers who do not comply with the RWHS may face increased charges for water tanker services.
Timeline and Expected Benefits
The Special Drive will run from October to December 2024. During this period, HMWSSB aims to significantly increase the number of RWH pits installed, which will, in turn, help raise the groundwater table. This effort is particularly crucial during the summer months when the groundwater level depletes, and dependency on water tankers skyrockets.
The official launch of the Special Drive is expected to take place on Gandhi Jayanthi Day (October 2, 2024), with the program being inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister under the guidance of the Principal Secretary, MAUD.
Conclusion
The Rainwater Harvesting Scheme introduced by HMWSSB is a forward-thinking initiative that addresses the growing water crisis in Hyderabad and Telangana. By mandating the construction of rainwater harvesting pits for larger properties and public spaces, the scheme not only promotes groundwater recharge but also reduces the dependency on water tankers during dry months. The integration of technology through an app-based survey and collaboration with NGOs ensures that the scheme is effectively implemented. As the Special Drive kicks off in October 2024, Hyderabad is set to become a model for sustainable water management practices across India.
