On average, Bangalore receives nearly 3,000 MLD of annual rainfall of which experts say 20-50 percent can be harvested for household use.

   The Rainwater Club, a non profit organisation, has set up a harvesting model at the Raj Bhavan – the residence of the Governor, the state’s top official – and the building does not have to rely on the BWSSB supply anymore.

   “Compared to 1994-1995 when we started, there is a lot more awareness and people are setting up rainwater harvesting in their houses, apartment blocks and industries,” says S. Vishwanath, a member of the Rainwater Club.

   “Currently about 10,000 million litres is harvested each year, which is small compared to the rain we get but Bangaloreans are realising the necessity for this,’’ he adds.

   When it began rainwater harvesting, the club used to assist about five houses to set up systems every year. Today, it handles about 40 inquiries every day.

   The club presently has a backlog of requests for assistance that could take it 6-8 months to fulfil, which is why it has set up a demonstration unit to help people help themselves rather than wait for its services.

   Rainwater harvesting can provide some immediate relief but the larger problem needs to be addressed for a long-term solution, says Vishwanath. He adds: “What we lack is a water management institution capable of handling all water available to the city, its distribution and use in totality.”

(END/AWW/IPSAP/IS/AR/BB/FS/080606)