RAIN CHECK: File picture of a model of a rainwater harvesting structure.

CHENNAI: With monsoon round the corner, this is the best time to check and ready the rainwater harvesting structures in the city for better returns of the rains, say rainwater harvesting experts.

As there has not been much survey on the maintenance of the RWH structures so far, several organisations have geared up to serve notice on the maintenance of the structures.

A simple method suggested to check the efficiency of the structures was to observe percolation of water during stray rains. The overflowing of water would mean clearing up the silt in the system, said RWH resource persons.

Sekhar Raghavan, director of Rain Centre, said most houses in the city have adopted either percolation pits or recharge well methods. However, cleaning percolation pits may be impossible as it resembles a borewell with a four-inch pipe laid 20ft deep. This kind of structures would function only for one or two years and residents may have to replace with recharge wells.

Those who have structures connected to sumps may check for overflowing of water. Only 1/3rd of the filter need to be filled up for good recharge, he said. Rain Centre is also offering to inspect homes and advise on maintenance (Ph: 24616134).

Misconception

RWH resource persons said that one of the misconceptions about RWH among the apartment dwellers was that rooftop harvesting yielded better recharge. However, this method harnessed only 60 per cent of rainwater and remaining 40 per cent need to be recharged through driveway harvesting.

P.Sudhakar, joint director of C.P.R.Environment Education Centre, suggested that the roofs be cleared of dust and silt to avoid clogging and leakage in the pipes need to be checked. The centre also plans to assist on maintenance. (Ph: 2434 6526).

The RWH experts wanted the road run-off be harnessed by the Government with recharge structures.

Chennai Metrowater, which has started its RWH campaign through reminders in newspapers, plans door-to-door campaign on RWH maintenance from October 1. Residents may contact area offices or hydrogeologist wing at 28516080 for advice on repair of structures.

The Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board has dedicated a website for RWH (www.aboutrainwaterharvesting.com) , which provides details on several aspects including rainwater conservation according to the roof area. Residents may also calculate quantity of rainwater harnessed and use depending on the building area through a rainwater calculator link.

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