Tamil Nadu Government Orders Statewide Rainwater Harvesting Drive to Boost Groundwater Recharge

The Tamil Nadu government has directed District Collectors, local bodies and concerned departments to ensure the time-bound implementation of rainwater harvesting (RWH) measures across the State. The initiative aims to strengthen water conservation, restore existing rainwater harvesting structures and improve groundwater recharge.

The government is taking forward the rainwater harvesting initiative launched during the tenure of former Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, with fresh guidelines issued by Gagandeep Singh Bedi, Additional Chief Secretary to the Municipal Administration and Water Supply Department.

Focus on Existing and New Rainwater Harvesting Structures

Under the new guidelines, officials have been instructed to inspect existing rainwater harvesting systems and repair damaged or non-functional structures. New facilities will also be established through rooftop rainwater collection and groundwater recharge systems.

Rainwater harvesting structures in government offices, schools, hospitals, residential buildings, commercial premises and other public institutions will be monitored regularly.

Urban and rural local bodies have also been directed to maintain records of existing structures, repaired facilities and newly created rainwater harvesting systems.

Awards to Encourage Rainwater Harvesting

To promote public participation and healthy competition, the government has proposed awards recognising outstanding rainwater harvesting efforts.

The proposed awards will cover the best-performing district, local bodies at district and State levels, schools and colleges, government institutions, and resident welfare associations.

New Measures to Improve Groundwater Recharge

Officials have been instructed to identify suitable locations to collect and conserve surface runoff from roads, public spaces and institutional premises.

Depending on local conditions, authorities may implement recharge trenches, recharge shafts, percolation pits, recharge wells and storage structures to improve water conservation and groundwater levels.

Statewide Awareness Campaign Planned

The government has called for a comprehensive awareness campaign involving government departments, educational institutions, local bodies, resident welfare associations, self-help groups, voluntary organisations, industries and community organisations.

The initiative aims to improve the maintenance of existing rainwater harvesting facilities, expand coverage across Tamil Nadu and encourage residents and institutions to take an active role in conserving water resources.