Context: Raipur has emerged as a national model for urban water conservation under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative, creating nearly 32,000 rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge structures.
About Raipur’s Rainwater Revolution:
What It Is?
- A large-scale urban groundwater recharge and rainwater harvesting movement implemented in Raipur under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) initiative.
Aim:
- To improve groundwater recharge and reduce urban water stress caused by rapid urbanisation and excessive groundwater extraction.
- To transform Raipur into a climate-resilient Sponge City capable of conserving and reusing rainwater efficiently.
Key Features:
- 32,000 Recharge Structures: Creation of recharge wells, percolation pits, injection wells, recharge shafts, rooftop harvesting systems, and stormwater recharge structures.
- Public–Private Participation: Collaboration among the Raipur Municipal Corporation, CREDAI, institutions, builders, and citizens for widespread adoption of rainwater harvesting.
- Innovative Technologies: Use of permeable Eco Blocks, tractor-mounted auger drilling, multilayer filtration systems, and slotted recharge pipes.
- High Recharge Capacity: Recharge wells can replenish up to 3 lakh litres annually, while injection wells can recharge up to 15 lakh litres per year.
- Policy Reforms: Developers are encouraged to reserve at least 1% of project areas for water harvesting and green spaces, alongside regular maintenance mechanisms.
- Integrated Water Management: Includes pond interlinking, Kharun River Eco Bloc projects, and treated wastewater reuse for industrial purposes.
Significance:
- Urban Water Security: Reduces groundwater depletion, minimizes rainwater runoff, and improves long-term water availability in rapidly growing cities.
- Climate Resilience Model: Provides a scalable framework for addressing urban flooding, groundwater stress, and climate-induced water challenges.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:
- GS Paper I
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- Geography: Water resources and environmental challenges.
- Urbanization and related issues.
- GS Paper II
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- Government policies and interventions for sustainable development.
- Role of local bodies in urban governance.
- GS Paper III
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- Conservation of water resources.
- Environment and climate change.
- Disaster management and urban resilience.
