Bhubaneswar: The state will participate in the “Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari” initiative of the ministry of jal shakti to implement simple and practical methods of artificial recharge for groundwater augmentation. The ministry of jal shakti shared detailed guidelines for effective implementation of initiatives across the state and asked all stakeholder departments to follow them for smooth execution of the plans.
Special secretary, water resources department, Narahari Sethi asked the departments to take necessary steps to circulate the guideline at the grassroots level and create awareness about the importance of artificial recharge structures.
According to the guidelines, officials are to conduct a capacity calculation of the recharge pits and design the catchment area based on average rainfall. This will ensure that the system can store the maximum volume of water generated during peak rainfall.
For recharge of wells or shafts, the depth should be sufficient to reach permeable layers, while the diameter should be based on the volume of water and site conditions, the guidelines of the ministry read. The guidelines also suggested using durable and corrosion-resistant materials such as PVC or galvanised iron for gutters and downpipes so that they can channel the water from the roof to the storage tank or harvesting pit.
“Artificial recharge structures are not recommended in areas where water levels are shallower than three metres below ground level in the post-monsoon period. Rainwater storage structures can be constructed in these areas,” the guidelines suggest.
Further, the ministry suggested regular inspection of the entire system, including the rooftop, gutters, filters, and storage tanks, for damage and clogging. The ministry also asked for installation of a flush system to divert the initial water from rooftops.
“Install mesh filters on the gutter ends to prevent debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt from entering the pipes. Install desilting and filter systems to remove suspended solids and debris from rainwater before entering the recharge structure,” the ministry said.
To avoid contamination, officials have also been asked to ensure that the recharge pit or well is located away from septic tanks, soak pits, and contaminated areas. “Ensure that the contaminated water does not flow into the structure,” mentioned the guidelines.
The ministry also stressed the annual cleaning of the storage tanks and pipes before the monsoon to ensure water quality is not compromised. “Clean the roof regularly to remove dust, leaves, and other contaminants that can affect water quality,” the ministry said.