Kochi: In an attempt to resolve water scarcity and to recharge groundwater, the City Corporation has initiated rainwater harvesting schemes for households within the city limits. In the pilot phase, the scheme will be implemented in 1212 selected families. Of the total Rs 11, 000 for the unit, the beneficiary share is only Rs 2750. The scheme being undertaken under the Union government’s AMRUT programme aims at replenishing the depleting groundwater level through well recharging.
Rainwater collected from the rooftop will be purified and stored in a 500 litre tank. As per a survey by the SCMS Water Institute, of the 90 sq km total area in the city, 10 sq km is the rooftop area which can be used for rooftop rainwater harvesting. As much as 2.5 lakh litres of rain water can be harvested from 100 sq m which means the 10 sq km rooftop area in Kochi can collect enough rainwater needed for the city.
The survey report has recommended that the local body should initiate decentralised rainwater harvesting schemes to minimize the city’s dependence on Kerala Water Authority sources for drinking water. Those interested in setting up the facility can submit applications before November 30. Since the civic body has already completed the contract procedures, the scheme will be undertaken soon after the applications are received.
