Residents’ welfare associations across Bengaluru are intensifying their efforts to bolster water conservation measures. Learning from the challenges faced, these communities are aggressively expanding their rainwater harvesting capabilities and collaborating with groundwater experts to explore innovative solutions like recharge pits for treated water.
At South City apartment complex off Bannerghatta Road, proactive measures include a substantial increase in treated water capacity, now processing between 9 to 9.5 lakh litres daily, with a significant portion allocated for internal use. This initiative not only safeguards against future water scarcity but also generates revenue by selling surplus treated water at INR 125 per tanker. Similarly, at Ecolife apartments in Balagere, mandatory usage of treated water extends beyond flushing to include gardening and other non-potable purposes. Plans are underway to further enhance rainwater harvesting capacity while evaluating the feasibility of groundwater recharge through treated water, subject to necessary pH level checks and regulatory approvals. Residents in Sarjapura are adopting multifaceted approaches, including installing water tanks for rainwater storage and repurposing unused spaces for rainwater pits. Additionally, efforts are underway to revive and utilize open wells for rainwater storage, potentially fulfilling up to 30% of local water needs. In Whitefield, residents have implemented two recharge pits for treated water, alongside improvements in existing rainwater harvesting systems, resulting in a noticeable 20% reduction in overall water consumption.
Reflecting on these initiatives, a spokesperson from a Sarjapura Residents’ Welfare Association emphasized the community’s commitment to sustainable water management amid escalating urban demands. “By diversifying our water conservation strategies, including robust rainwater harvesting and innovative use of treated water, we aim to mitigate the impact of future water crises,” the spokesperson stated. As Bengaluru continues to grapple with burgeoning urbanization and its consequent strain on water resources, these proactive steps by residential communities serve as commendable examples of sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The concerted efforts by these associations not only aim to alleviate immediate water shortages but also set a precedent for integrated water management practices essential for the city’s sustainable growth trajectory.
