DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

Session 2025

MAJOR PROJECT REPORT ON

Rainwater Harvesting (RWH)

UNDER THE GUIDANCE OF

ANANYA MAJUMDER
SUBMITTED BY:

NAME: -
ROLL NO.-
DIPLOMA 3rd YEAR, 5th SEMESTER
 DECLARATION

I hereby declare that the project titled “The Application of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH)”,
submitted as a MAJOR PROJECT, is the result of my academic work carried out during the
academic year 2025. This project was undertaken under the valuable guidance of ANANYA
MAJUMDER from the Department of Civil Engineering, TRIPURA INSTITUTE OF
TECHNOLOGY, Narsingarh, as a part of the curriculum requirement for the Diploma in Civil
Engineering.

I further declare that this project is the outcome of our personal group effort and has not been
submitted elsewhere to any university or institution for the award of any degree or diploma.

i
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to ANANYA MAJUMDER Madam of the
Civil Engineering Department for their valuable support and expert guidance throughout the
duration of our MAJOR PROJECT titled “Rainwater Harvesting (RWH)”. Their dedication,
encouragement, and insightful suggestions have been vital in the successful completion of this
work.

We are equally thankful to our parents for their unwavering support and motivation. We also
appreciate the efforts and collaboration of our fellow group members, whose shared knowledge
and cooperative spirit played a significant role in achieving the project objectives.

This project has been a rewarding learning experience, made possible through the combined
contributions of everyone involved.

Your’s Sincerely

. Date: –

ii
 ABSTRACT

Water is one of the most vital natural resources for sustaining life, yet it is facing increasing
pressure due to rapid urbanization, population growth, and climate change. The overexploitation
of groundwater has resulted in declining water tables and scarcity of fresh water in many regions.
In this context, rainwater harvesting has emerged as an effective and sustainable solution for water
management.

Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting and storing rainwater for future use. It can
be carried out through rooftop harvesting systems, surface runoff collection, and recharge
structures. The harvested water can be directly used for domestic, agricultural, and industrial
needs, thereby reducing dependence on traditional water supply systems. Excess rainwater can
also be directed into the ground through recharge pits, trenches, wells, and percolation tanks, which
helps in replenishing the groundwater table.

This project explores the application of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) using percolation tanks
as a sustainable solution to urban water scarcity, with a focus on Bangalore city. The study
highlights the growing need for decentralized water management in rapidly urbanizing regions,
emphasizing the role of RWH in groundwater recharge, water conservation, and reducing
dependency on external water sources. This practice not only conserves water but also plays a
major role in reducing soil erosion, preventing urban flooding, and maintaining ecological balance.
It ensures a reliable water source during dry seasons and improves the quality of groundwater by
natural filtration. Additionally, rainwater harvesting contributes to cost savings in households and
industries by lowering water bills and reducing energy consumption required for pumping
groundwater.

In conclusion, rainwater harvesting, when integrated with groundwater recharge techniques,

provides a holistic approach to water conservation. It addresses the issue of water scarcity while
promoting sustainability and environmental protection. Adopting this practice at individual,
community, and institutional levels is essential for securing our water resources for future
generations.

iii
 CONTENTS

DECLARATION....…………………………………………………………………i

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT…………………………………………………………..ii

ABSTRACT………………………………………………………………………....iii

CONTENTS…………………………………………………………………………iv

INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………………………...

OBJECTIVES………………………………………………………………………

LITERATURE REVIEW……………………………………………………………

METHODOLOGY…………………………………………………………………..

MATERIALS USED FOR RAINWATER HARVESTING………………………..

DISEASES CAUSED BY RWH AND ITS PREVENTIONS……………………...

DISCUSSION AND RESULTS OF RAINWATER HARVESTING……………....

CASE STUDY OF RAIN WATER HARVESTING IN BANGALORE CITY……

CONCLUSION……………………………………………………………………...

REFERENCES………………………………………………………………………

iv
 INTRODUCTION

Water is the foundation of life and a critical resource for the survival of all living organisms.
It plays a central role in domestic activities, agriculture, industry, and ecological balance. Despite
being a renewable resource, the availability of fresh water is becoming increasingly scarce due to
rapid population growth, urbanization, industrial development, and climate change. Many regions
across the world, including India, are already facing acute water shortages, declining groundwater
levels, and erratic rainfall patterns. This situation highlights the urgent need for sustainable water
management practices.

Rainwater harvesting has emerged as one of the most effective, economical, and eco-friendly
solutions to address water scarcity. It is the process of collecting and storing rainwater that falls
on rooftops, paved surfaces, and open land areas, and utilizing it for domestic, agricultural, and
industrial purposes. Instead of allowing rainwater to flow into drains and get wasted, harvesting
methods ensure that it is conserved and made available for future use. This not only supplements
conventional water sources but also reduces pressure on groundwater and surface water bodies.

An equally important aspect of rainwater harvesting is groundwater recharge. Excess

rainwater that cannot be stored is directed into recharge structures such as pits, trenches, wells,
and percolation tanks, allowing it to seep underground and replenish aquifers. This practice helps
in restoring the declining water table, improving water quality, and ensuring a reliable supply of
groundwater during dry periods. By combining water conservation with groundwater recharge,
rainwater harvesting provides a holistic approach to sustainable water management.

India is particularly vulnerable to this crisis due to its large and growing urban population.
Cities like Delhi, Chennai, and Bangalore are facing acute water stress, brought about by over-
reliance on groundwater, mismanagement of water resources, and inadequate infrastructure.
Climate change has further compounded the problem, with erratic rainfall patterns and prolonged
droughts threatening the availability of fresh water. Bangalore, the capital of Karnataka and one
of India’s leading tech hubs, is a stark example of this paradox. Once known as the “City of Lakes,”
Bangalore has witnessed the disappearance of a majority of its natural water bodies due to urban
encroachment, poor planning, and neglect. Today, the city heavily depends on water transported
from the Cauvery River, over 100 kilometers away, and is depleting its groundwater at an alarming
rate. Seasonal water scarcity, erratic supply, and declining water tables are becoming increasingly
common across its residential and commercial areas.

5
 OBJECTIVES

• The main objective is to save and use rainwater properly instead of allowing it to flow
away as waste. By storing and reusing this water, we can reduce extra pressure on rivers,
lakes, and underground water. It also ensures that enough water is available for daily
needs, farming, and other purposes, especially during dry seasons.

• The objective is to allow excess rainwater to seep into the ground through percolation
tanks, which are small ponds or tanks made for this purpose. This helps refill
underground water levels, improves the water table, and makes groundwater available for
wells, hand pumps, and bore wells during dry periods. It also prevents water scarcity and
supports farming and daily needs in the long run.

6
 LITERATURE REVIEW

SL Author’s Name Title Objectives Findings

NO.
1. J.C. Paul & B. Rooftop Rainwater To design and Annual recharge
Panigrahi Harvesting for evaluate rooftop ~2,500 m³; water
Groundwater RWH structures table rose 0.70 m
Recharge in for groundwater in summer and
Bhubaneswar City, recharge in urban 2.04 m post-
Odisha. conditions. monsoon despite
pumping,
proving
effectiveness of
rooftop recharge.

2. Deepesh Machiwal, Rainwater To monitor RWH

Santosh Ojha & R.C. Harvesting to impact of RWH significantly
Purohit Augment structures on raised
Groundwater groundwater level groundwater
Levels: A Case and surface- tables;
Study in Semi-Arid groundwater effectiveness
Rajasthan. interactions. depended on
rainfall
variability and
local geology.
3. N. Nagaraj, U. Cost Effectiveness To assess Farm ponds and
Pradhani, P.G. of Rainwater technical recharge pits
Chengappa, G. Harvesting for feasibility and provided
Basavaraj & R.S. Groundwater economic returns positive benefit–
Kanwar Recharge in Hard of RWH cost ratios (1.39–
Rock Areas of structures in 1.80); viable for
Karnataka. micro-watersheds sustaining
groundwater in
hard-rock areas.
4. R. Kumari, R. Singh, Impact of To evaluate RWH Net recharge
R.M. Tewari, S.K. Rainwater interventions on increased
Dhyani, I. Dev, B. Harvesting groundwater ~71.8%; water
Sharma et al. Structures on recharge and column rise from
Water Table cropping 3.54 m to 5.98
Behavior in intensity. m; additional
Parasai-Sindh rabi crops
Watershed, possible due to
Bundelkhand. improved soil
moisture.

7
5. N.K. Gontia & P.Y. Assessment of To quantify Harvesting
Patil Groundwater natural vs structures added
Recharge Through artificial recharge significant
Rainfall and Water using Remote recharge in
Harvesting Sensing & GIS. semi-arid hard-
Structures in rock zones;
Jamka spatial mapping
Microwatershed, supported
Gujarat. planning.

6. Gopal Lal Meena et al. Rainwater To assess Adoption of

Harvesting for economic benefits bunding and
Augmenting Rain- of water field levelling
fed Agricultural harvesting improved fodder
Income: A Success structures in rain- yield, farmer
Story. fed farming. income, and
cattle
productivity.
7. R. Sahu, D. Kumar, Rooftop Rainwater To document Rooftop RWH
R.K. Sohane & R. Harvesting: An household RWH reduced runoff,
Kumar Innovative practices for enhanced
Approach Towards water groundwater
Resource conservation and recharge, and
Conservation. groundwater provided reliable
recharge. domestic water
with minimal
cost.
8. Subhashis Chowdhury, Analysis of To evaluate RWH Properly
Souvik Chakraborty & Rainwater as an alternative designed RWH
Rajashree Lodh Harvesting Method potable water can supply safe
for Supply of source in potable water;
Potable Water: arsenic/saline- effective in
Case Study of affected areas. overcoming
Gosaba, West quality issues of
Bengal. groundwater.

9. P.K. Singh & M. Reddy Effect of Farm To estimate Increased

Ponds on recharge from groundwater
Groundwater small farm ponds. levels by 0.5–1.0
Recharge in m post-
Telangana. monsoon;

8
 ensured water
for crops.

10. R.K. Tiwari & V. Traditional RWH To review Traditional

Sharma Structures in indigenous RWH systems are low-
Rajasthan and methods (kunds, cost and
Their tankas, johads). effective; need
Sustainability. revival with
modern designs.

11. A.K. Sharma & P. Jain Rooftop Rainwater To assess Annual

Harvesting in potential of harvesting
Institutional institutional potential met
Buildings, Delhi. rooftop ~40% of water
harvesting. demand; reduced
stormwater
runoff.
12. S. Patel & M. Shukla Impact of Check To evaluate Increased
Dams on recharge benefits groundwater
Groundwater of small check recharge by 25–
Recharge in dams. 40% in
Gujarat. surrounding
wells.

13. K. Srivastava & P. Community-Based To examine Enhanced

Gupta RWH in participatory groundwater
Bundelkhand water harvesting recharge,
Region. models. improved crop
yield, reduced
migration.
14. Jagannath Rekha Rainwater To compare Ancient methods
Harvesting in India traditional and are sustainable;
– Past and Present. modern RWH modern systems
practices. need policy
support &
awareness.

9
 METHODOLOGY

1. Site Assessment

• Identify Catchment Area: Rooftops, terraces, paved/unpaved open areas.

• Measure Rainfall: Use historical rainfall data to estimate water yield.

• Assess Water Demand: Daily water consumption helps determine recharge needs.

• Soil and Subsoil Type: Important for deciding recharge method.

2. System Design

A. Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting

Rooftop rainwater harvesting involves collecting rainwater from a building's roof, directing
it through gutters and downpipes, and using a first-flush system to remove initial impurities. The
water then passes through a filter made of sand, gravel, or charcoal. After filtration, it is either
stored in a tank for non-potable uses (like gardening or flushing) or directed into recharge pits or
wells to replenish groundwater. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure system
efficiency and water quality.

Used for both direct use and groundwater recharge

• Catchment Surface: Rooftops of homes, schools, offices.

• Conveyance System: Gutters and downspouts to transport rainwater.

• First Flush Device: Discards initial dirty runoff (~10–15 liters).

• Filtration Unit: Multi-layer (charcoal, sand, gravel) or mesh filters.

• Storage Tank (if for reuse): Made of RCC, plastic, or masonry. Include overflow pipe
and tap outlet.

• Recharge Structures (if for percolation):

o Recharge Pit: Small pit filled with gravel and sand.

o Percolation Pit/Trench: For larger areas.

o Recharge Well/Borewell Injection: For direct groundwater recharge.

10
 B. Surface Runoff Harvesting

Surface runoff harvesting involves collecting rainwater that flows over land (like roads,
parks, or fields) during rainfall. This water is guided through channels into storage structures like
ponds, tanks, or recharge pits. Before storage or recharge, the water is filtered to remove debris
and sediment. The harvested water can be used for irrigation or allowed to seep into the ground
to recharge groundwater.

Used to manage rain falling on roads, parks, etc.

• Stormwater Drains: Capture and divert surface runoff.

• Desilting Chambers: Remove debris and silt before recharge.

• Recharge Trenches/Wells: Allow slow infiltration into groundwater.

3. Construction

• Follow design using locally available materials.

• Ensure proper gradient for flow.

11
 • Secure all joints, especially in conveyance systems.

4. Maintenance

• Pre-monsoon Cleaning: Clear roof, gutters, filters.

• Periodic Inspection: Check for cracks, clogs, or overflow issues.

• Filter Replacement: Change or clean filters as needed.

• Recharge Pit Desilting: Once a year or more depending on silt load.

5. Monitoring & Evaluation

• Water Metering: Track volume collected/used.

• Groundwater Monitoring: Check water table changes (if recharge is the goal).

• Quality Testing: Ensure harvested water is safe (especially if reused).

12
 MATERIALS USED FOR RAINWATER HARVESTING
The materials used for rainwater harvesting (RWH) vary depending on the system design
(storage or recharge) but generally fall into a few essential categories:

1. Catchment Area Materials

• Concrete or Cement Roofs.

• Galvanized Iron (GI) Sheets.

• Tiles (Clay or Ceramic).

• Asbestos Sheets (rarely used now due to health concerns).

2. Conveyance System Materials

• PVC or UPVC Pipes – For gutters and downpipes.

• HDPE Pipes – High strength and durable for underground piping.

• Gutter Mesh/Screens – To prevent leaves and debris entry.

3. First Flush System

• Ball Valve & Storage Container – Discards initial dirty water.

• T-Joint or Diverter Valve – Controls direction of flow.

4. Filtration System Materials

• Gravel, Coarse Sand, and Fine Sand – Main filter media.

• Activated Charcoal or Pebbles – To remove odors and fine particles.

• Wire Mesh/Plastic Mesh – As top screening layer.

• Filter Housing – Usually made from PVC, concrete, or masonry rings.

5. Storage Structures

• RCC (Reinforced Cement Concrete) Tanks.

• Masonry Tanks (Brick or Stone Masonry).

• HDPE or Plastic Storage Tanks.

• Ferrocement Tanks – Cost-effective and durable.

13
6. Recharge Structures

• Perforated PVC Pipes – For recharge trenches.

Concrete Rings – Used in percolation/recharge pits.
Gravel and Sand – For filtration inside recharge pits.
Geo-textile Membranes (optional) – To prevent soil contamination.

7. Miscellaneous

• Valves – Gate valves, ball valves for controlling flow.

• Measuring devices – Water level indicators, flow meters.
• Protective materials – Wire mesh to prevent leaf/debris entry, mosquito-proof mesh.

7. Disinfection Materials

Chlorine tablets, bleaching powder, UV lamps → Used when stored water is meant for drinking.

8. Sealants & Waterproofing

Bitumen coating, epoxy resins, cement mortar with waterproofing compounds → Prevent leakage in
tanks and recharge pits.

9. Supporting & Safety Materials

Iron/steel rods, wire mesh cages, safety ladders, inspection covers → For structural strength and
safe maintenance.

14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37