SMARAN is an environmental and developmental organization that was established in 1997 with the aim of promoting natural resource-based livelihoods for poor and rural communities. The organization has conducted a study in Bengaluru and Chennai since 2004 to examine different models of rain harvesting methods. The study has led SMARAN to conclude that the Inverse Bore Well (IBW) system is best suited for cities like Hyderabad.
The IBW method involves using existing deep, dry boreholes for artificial recharge. Rainwater collected from rooftop areas and selective surface areas is channelized through rainwater outlets, leading to the rise in groundwater table. This method has been proven to increase borewell lifespan and yield, and reduce dependence on external water tank supply.
According to Subhash Chandra Reddy, founder of SMARAN, Hyderabad city has thousands of abandoned borewells with depths ranging from 120ft to 1500ft that have gone dry due to over-extraction or low groundwater levels. SMARAN believes that reviving these borewells and using them for rainwater harvesting can have far-reaching implications in addressing the city’s water requirements.
Reddy also emphasizes that a single model of rainwater harvesting cannot work across all types of terrain and construction sites. SMARAN has implemented various measures in different areas of Hyderabad, including the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campus in Madhapur, Hi-tech city, Botanical Garden, Telangana State Forest Academy (TSFA), Dhulapally, Government school in Raj Bhavan, and others.
Overall, SMARAN believes that the IBW method is the best practice for city water sustainability and flood mitigation due to the rapid and massive growth in city infrastructure. By using this method, SMARAN hopes to reduce dependence on external water tank supply and promote natural resource-based livelihoods for poor and rural communities.
