Learning from crisis, Corpn inspects rainwater harvesting systems

During phase one of the drive, the civic official would randomly visit 1,000 houses in each division to cover 2 lakh houses. “Chennai Corporation will provide suggestions to set up rainwater harvesting structures and maintaining them,” a Chennai Corporationstatement said.

Meanwhile, Chennai Corporation Commissioner G Prakash inspected rainwater harvesting structures at residences on Ranjith Road in Adyar. He also distributed pamphlets to create awareness. “As many as 10 lakh pamphlets emphasising on rainwater harvesting structures have been printed and they will be distributed to the residents,” an official said.

While speaking to reporters, Prakash said that the civic body, along with Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB), would inspect all the 12 lakh buildings in the city. “The first phase covering 2 lakh buildings will be done in 45 days. Residents should ensure rainwater harvesting to increase groundwater level,” he added.

As per Rain Centre data, the average groundwater level in the city has dropped to 7.7 metres. A Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board official claimed that more than 8 lakh buildings in the city have rainwater harvesting structures. “CMWSSB has mandated rainwater harvesting structures for new buildings. Water and sewerage connections will be provided only if the buildings have such structures,” theofficial said.

Explaining sudden interest in rainwater harvesting, the civic official said that the city is facing the water crisis in such intensity due to the lack of groundwater.

“If groundwater is available in the city, stress on Metrowater would have been lesser. Emphasising the rainwater harvesting before the onset of monsoon would increase groundwater level,” the official said.