MODULE-3

GROUND WATER RECHARGE

I. GROUNDWATER RECHARGE

Groundwater recharge is the process of water moving from the surface to the groundwater OR

Groundwater recharge or deep drainage or deep percolation is a hydrologic process, where water
moves downward from surface water to groundwater

It can occur naturally or through human-controlled methods.

a. Natural recharge

Water from precipitation seeps into the soil and percolates to the water table .Water that isn't
stored or evaporated contributes to the groundwater supply

B.Artificial recharge

Water is redirected across the land using canals, ponds, or infiltration basins .Water is injected
directly into the subsurface using injection wells Irrigation furrows or sprinkler systems are
added

II.IMPORTANCE OF GROUND WATER RECHARGE

1. Sustains Drinking Water Supplies

Groundwater is a major source of drinking water for billions of people worldwide. Recharge
ensures that aquifers remain replenished, providing a reliable and safe water supply for
households and communities, particularly in areas where surface water sources are scarce.

2. Supports Agriculture

Groundwater is essential for irrigation, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Recharge
maintains the availability of groundwater for agricultural use, ensuring food security. Without
proper recharge, wells may dry up, leading to crop failures and reduced agricultural productivity.
3. Maintains Ecosystems

Many wetlands, rivers, and lakes are fed by groundwater. Recharge helps maintain the base flow
of rivers and keeps wetland ecosystems alive, which are vital habitats for wildlife. Groundwater
also supports vegetation in dry regions through capillary action, helping plants survive in arid
conditions.

4. Prevents Land Subsidence

Over-extraction of groundwater without adequate recharge can lead to land subsidence, where
the ground sinks due to the depletion of water in the aquifers. Recharge helps prevent this by
maintaining the pressure in the underground layers, stabilizing the land and preventing
infrastructure damage.

5. Controls Saltwater Intrusion

In coastal areas, groundwater recharge helps prevent the intrusion of saltwater into freshwater
aquifers. Over-extraction of groundwater near coastlines can create a vacuum, allowing saltwater
to move into freshwater aquifers, rendering them undrinkable. Recharge helps maintain the
balance and keeps aquifers fresh.

6. Regulates Water Table Levels

A steady rate of groundwater recharge helps maintain healthy water table levels, preventing the
over-drawing of water resources. A balanced water table ensures a sustainable groundwater
supply for future generations.

7. Promotes Hydrological Balance

Groundwater recharge is a key component of the natural hydrological cycle, which includes
processes like precipitation, evaporation, and surface water runoff. Recharge maintains the
overall balance in the water cycle, ensuring that water flows through the system properly and that
groundwater remains an important reserve for dry periods.

8. Buffers Against Drought

Groundwater acts as a buffer during periods of drought or low rainfall. Recharge ensures that
aquifers remain replenished, which is vital during dry seasons when surface water is scarce.
Access to groundwater during drought conditions can mitigate the impacts of water shortages.

9. Economic Benefits

Reliable access to groundwater for industries (such as food processing, energy production, and
manufacturing) boosts local economies. Proper recharge ensures long-term water availability,
reducing the risks and costs associated with water shortages.

10. Prevents Pollution of Groundwater

In some cases, groundwater recharge can dilute or reduce the concentration of pollutants in
aquifers. However, when recharge is not balanced, pollutants may accumulate, affecting water
quality. Proper management of recharge zones can help mitigate pollution risks and maintain
groundwater quality.

11. Mitigates the Effects of Climate Change

As climate change alters precipitation patterns and increases the frequency of extreme weather
events, recharge is vital to maintaining the resilience of groundwater systems. Ensuring
consistent recharge can help buffer the impacts of changing climate conditions on water
availability.

12. Improves Water Quality

Groundwater can naturally filter and purify water as it moves through soil and rock layers.
Recharge processes help keep the water cycle intact, contributing to the natural filtration and
purification of groundwater, which improves water quality for consumption and other uses
III. FACTORS AFFECTING GROUND WATER RECHARGE

Groundwater recharge refers to the process by which water moves from the surface (such as
precipitation, rivers, or lakes) into the groundwater system. Several factors can influence this
process, and they include both natural and human-made elements. Here are the key factors
affecting groundwater recharge:

1. Precipitation

1. The amount, intensity, and frequency of rainfall are crucial. Areas with consistent rainfall
tend to have higher groundwater recharge, while dry or arid regions may have less
recharge.
2. Snowfall and snowmelt can also play a role in recharge, particularly in regions with
seasonal snow.

2. Soil Type and Permeability

1. Soil composition determines how easily water can infiltrate the ground. Sandy soils, for
example, allow water to pass through more easily than clayey soils, which have low
permeability.
2. The presence of rocks or impermeable layers (like hardpan) beneath the soil can limit
groundwater recharge by preventing water from penetrating deeper layers.

3. Land Use and Vegetation Cover

1. Urbanization, deforestation, and the conversion of natural land cover into agricultural
fields or developed areas can significantly reduce groundwater recharge by creating
impermeable surfaces (e.g., roads, buildings, pavements) that prevent water from entering
the soil.
2. Natural vegetation, such as forests and grasslands, helps increase recharge by allowing
water to infiltrate through plant roots and preventing surface runoff.

4. Topography
 1. The slope of the land affects how water moves. In hilly or mountainous areas, water may
run off quickly and may not have much time to infiltrate the soil, reducing recharge.
2. Flat areas, on the other hand, tend to allow water to settle and infiltrate the ground more
effectively.

5. Groundwater Depth and Aquifer Characteristics

1. The depth of the groundwater table can influence recharge. If the water table is very
deep, it may be more difficult for water to reach it, limiting recharge.
2. The type of aquifer (confined or unconfined) also matters. Unconfined aquifers are
generally more easily recharged because the water is in direct contact with the surface,
whereas confined aquifers may have limited recharge due to overlying impermeable
layers.

6. Climate

1. Long-term climate conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and wind, can influence
evaporation and the amount of water available for recharge.
2. Warmer temperatures can increase evaporation, reducing the amount of water available to
recharge groundwater.

7. Human Activities

1. Groundwater extraction (for agriculture, industrial use, or domestic purposes) can alter
the natural recharge process. Excessive withdrawal may deplete groundwater levels faster
than they can be naturally replenished.
2. Land management practices, such as irrigation techniques or water conservation
practices, also affect recharge. Over-irrigation or improper irrigation methods can lead to
waterlogging and affect natural recharge.

8. Surface Water Availability

1. Proximity to rivers, lakes, or other surface water bodies can enhance recharge,
particularly when there is exchange between surface water and groundwater. For
 instance, rivers that flow through areas with permeable soils can contribute to
groundwater recharge.

9. Seasonal Variations

1. Recharge is often seasonal, with higher recharge occurring during rainy seasons and
lower recharge during dry periods. In areas with distinct wet and dry seasons, recharge
can be highly variable.

10. Soil Moisture and Evapotranspiration

1. High soil moisture levels can facilitate the infiltration of water into the ground, especially
if there's enough precipitation.
2. Evapotranspiration, which is the process of water being transferred to the atmosphere
through evaporation from soil and plant surfaces, also affects how much water remains
available for recharge.

VI. REVIVAL TECHNQUES OF RAINWATER HARVESTING

Some traditional techniques and why reviving them is important:

1. Kund (Step Wells)

 What It Is: Kunds are traditional step wells commonly found in arid regions of India and
other parts of South Asia. These wells are designed to collect rainwater, and the water
can be accessed by descending a series of steps.
 Revival Importance: Kunds were originally built to store rainwater and were used as
community water sources. Reviving these structures helps to manage seasonal water
availability and supports communities in rural or water-scarce areas. Modernizing these
techniques while maintaining their traditional design can provide a sustainable water
supply for local needs.
2. Zings and Afs (Tanks)

 What It Is: In parts of Central Asia, such as the Karez system in Iran and the Zing tanks
in Rajasthan, India, these systems capture rainwater and store it in underground tanks or
reservoirs. Water is collected from rainfall or melted snow and stored in large, often
subterranean tanks to protect it from evaporation.
 Revival Importance: These traditional tanks reduce water loss from evaporation,
particularly in dry climates, and are excellent for storing water for later use, especially in
agriculture. Their revival can help boost water availability for both drinking and
irrigation, especially in arid regions.

3. Baoli (Step Wells and Reservoirs)

 What It Is: Baolis are large, deep wells found in India and parts of the Middle East, often
with steps leading to the water. They served as both water storage and community
gathering spaces. Rainwater collected from nearby areas would be directed into these
wells.
 Revival Importance: Reviving baolis helps capture and store rainwater, particularly in
urban areas with little access to natural sources. They can be retrofitted with modern
filtration techniques and made into sustainable community water sources.

4. Percolation Pits

 What It Is: Percolation pits are shallow pits or trenches filled with sand, gravel, or stones
where rainwater is directed so it can filter down into the ground, replenishing the
groundwater table.
 Revival Importance: This method directly contributes to groundwater recharge,
improving the water table over time and reducing surface runoff. It’s a cost-effective and
low-maintenance method that works well in areas where the soil allows for easy
percolation of water.
5. Check Dams

 What It Is: Traditional check dams are small, low-cost barriers constructed across
seasonal streams or rivers to slow the flow of water and allow it to seep into the ground,
replenishing groundwater.
 Revival Importance: Check dams help reduce water loss due to runoff and improve
water storage in the local ecosystem. They are particularly effective in semi-arid areas
and can be built without the need for advanced technology. Reviving check dams can
increase water availability for both rural and urban communities.

6. Jhalaras (Traditional Water Tanks)

 What It Is: Jhalaras are ancient water storage structures found in Rajasthan and Gujarat,
India. These are multi-level reservoirs designed to collect and store rainwater from
catchment areas.
 Revival Importance: These structures can be revived for both cultural and practical
purposes, offering sustainable water solutions in regions facing severe water scarcity.
They can be restored as both traditional water harvesting and tourist attractions,
benefiting local economies.

7. Rainwater Harvesting Roofs (Tarpan or Patra)

 What It Is: Traditional techniques often involve directing rainwater from rooftops into
storage tanks or ponds. This method has been used in many regions, including the Middle
East and parts of Africa.
 Revival Importance: These techniques can be adapted for modern homes, reducing
dependence on centralized water systems. Installing rainwater harvesting systems on
rooftops is one of the simplest and most effective ways to conserve water in urban and
rural areas alike.
8. Tanks and Ponds (Nadis)

 What It Is: A nadis is a traditional water pond used in India and Southeast Asia for
capturing surface water during the monsoon. These tanks are often connected to irrigation
systems and have been used for centuries to provide water to communities.
 Revival Importance: Reviving nadis or small ponds in rural and urban areas can
increase water storage capacity, promote local water security, and support agriculture,
especially during dry periods when surface water is scarce.

9. Siddis (Terraces) for Water Storage

 What It Is: In regions like the Himalayas, terraced fields (siddis) were traditionally used
to capture rainwater. These terraces prevent water runoff and allow rainwater to collect,
promoting soil moisture and reducing erosion.
 Revival Importance: Reviving terraced fields as rainwater harvesting structures can help
reduce soil erosion, improve soil fertility, and enhance water retention in farming regions,
ensuring sustainable agricultural practices.

Benefits of Reviving Traditional Techniques:

1. Sustainability: These techniques often rely on local materials and simple, low-cost
infrastructure, making them environmentally sustainable and affordable for communities.
2. Local Control: Communities can manage and maintain these systems locally, increasing
resilience to water shortages and reducing dependence on centralized systems.
3. Cultural Heritage: Many traditional techniques are part of a region's cultural heritage.
Reviving them helps preserve local knowledge and promotes a sense of pride in
sustainable practices.
4. Environmental Impact: These systems are generally environmentally friendly, with
minimal use of energy and resources, unlike modern, energy-intensive water management
systems.
5. Recharging Aquifers: Many traditional rainwater harvesting systems help replenish
groundwater supplies, ensuring long-term water availability.
 The Following Data in table from rain water harvesting and conservation Manual which
is helpful for numerical.
NUMERICALS

1. A community building with a roof area of 300 m2 receives an average annual rainfall of 600
mm. The runoff coefficient is 0.9. Calculate the total annual rainwater harvested.

SOLUTION:

1. Given data:
Roof area=300m2
Average annual rainfall=600mm
Runoff coefficient=0.9

Total annual rainwater harvested= Roof area* Average annual rainfall* Runoff
coefficient*0.85*0.80
=300m 2*0.6m*0.90*0.85*0.80
=122.4m 3
Total annual rainwater harvested =1, 22,400 liters

Water Harvesting Potentials

The collection efficiency accounts for the fact that all the rainwater falling over the area cannot
be effectively harVested because of evaporation, spillage,etc. Factors like runoff coefficient and
first flush wastage are taken into account for estimating the collection efficiency. Taking into
account the runoff coefficient of about 80% for rooftop area and another 10% losses as spillage
and leakages from the pipes, the volume of harvested annual water-harvesting capacity can be
estimated by using below formula.

Water Harvesting Potentials-Rainfall (mm) x Collection Efficiency x ,Rooftop or

catchment area.
2. A building with a roof area of 100 m2 receives an annual rainfall of 600 mm. The height of
rainfall is 0.6m. Calculate the rain water harvesting potential

3. Consider a building of roof area of 150 m2-located in an area receiving rainfall of'
About 600 mm per annum. Assume collection efficiency of 70% (include runoff
coefficient and spillage and leakages from pipes). Calculate the rain water harvesting
potential.
Solution:
Rooftop area 150m2 =
Rainfall depth = 600 mm (0.6 m)
Volume of water harvested = 0.6x150x0.7
=63m3
= 63,000 litre (l m3= 1000 litre)
 4. A residential building with a roof area of 100 sq.m receives an annual rainfall of
793.33mm. The height of rainfall is 0.7973m. Calculate the rain water harvesting potential

SOLUTION:
Residential building with a roof area = 100 Sq.m
Annual rainfall = 793.33mm
Height of rainfall = 0.7973m
Rain water endowment of that area =100 Sq.m*0.7973m=79.73m3
= 79730 liters
Note: Considering roof catchment as tile finish so that roof coefficient is 0.85 and for
constant of evaporation for spillage is 0.80.
Rain water harvesting potential= Rain water endowment of that area* roof coefficient*
constant of evaporation
=79730 liters*0.85*0.80=54216.4liters

V. PREPARING A TECHNICAL RAINWATER HARVESTING DRAWING:

1. Title Block and Scale

 Start with a title block that includes:
o Project name
o Date of creation
o Revision history (if applicable)
o Scale of the drawing (1:100, 1:50, etc.)
 Use a standard architectural scale for technical drawings.
2. Site Layout
 Begin by outlining the site plan where the rainwater harvesting system will be installed.
 Include the following elements in the layout:
o Building footprint (roof and walls)
o Location of downspouts or gutters for rainwater collection
 o Area where water will be collected (e.g., tank placement, filtering system
location)
3. Collection System
 Draw the roof surface to indicate where rainwater will be collected.
 Show the gutters and downspouts (including dimensions, pipe sizes, and material types).
 Indicate any leaf guards or filtration systems at the collection points to prevent debris
from entering the system.
4. First Flush System (Optional)
 Draw and label the first flush diverter to ensure that the first portion of rainwater, which
may contain contaminants, is diverted away from the storage tank.
 Include the diverter's specifications (e.g., pipe size and materials).
5. Storage Tank
 Show the location and dimensions of the storage tank(s) (underground or above-ground).
 Indicate the capacity of the tank(s) in liters or gallons.
 Include details such as:
o Overflow pipes and location
o Tank material (concrete, plastic, etc.)
o Inlet and outlet pipe connections
o Height of the tank for gravity-fed systems (if applicable)
6. Filtration System
 Include the filtration components (e.g., mesh filters, sand filters, carbon filters).
 Show where the filter(s) will be located in the system, typically before the water enters
the storage tank.
7. Pump and Distribution System (Optional)
 If a pump is used to distribute the water, indicate its location, type, and specifications.
 Draw and label the distribution pipes for irrigation or domestic use (specify pipe sizes
and material).
8. Overflow and Drainage
 Clearly show the overflow pipe from the storage tank to prevent flooding.
 Indicate where the excess water will be directed (e.g., to a storm drain or drainage area).
9. System Flow Diagram
  A flow diagram should accompany the technical drawing to clearly show how the
rainwater flows through the system:
o Rainwater falls on the roof → Collected by gutters → Downspouts → First Flush
Diverter (if included) → Filter → Storage Tank → Distribution System
10. Labels and Annotations
 Label each component of the system clearly with:
 Pipe sizes
 Materials
 Flow directions (use arrows)
 Provide any necessary annotations to describe materials, dimensions, or any special
features.
11. Details and Sections
 Include detailed drawings or sections for more complicated parts of the system (e.g., tank
installation, pump setup).
 Detail how different components connect, such as the pipe joining the tank, filtration
system, etc.
12. Compliance and Standards
 Ensure that your design complies with local regulations and standards for rainwater
harvesting.
 Reference any relevant standards or codes (e.g., building codes, plumbing codes).
VI. NUMERICALS ON DESIGN OF RAINWATER HARVESTING SYSTEM

1. Design rain water harvesting system of Roof has an area of 100 m², the average rainfall in the
area is 800 mm per year, and the runoff coefficient for the roof is 0.85 (for a concrete roof). If
the daily water requirement is 200 liters/day for domestic use, and you want the tank to store
enough water for 6 months .calculate the storage tank size. Calculate the number of ranks
required and Estimate the Overflow, expected rainfall intensity is 10 mm/hr

Solution:

a.Calculate the Annual Rainwater Yield

Volume annual=100m2×800mm×0.85=68,000liters/year
So, the annual rainwater yield is 68,000 liters.

b.Design the Storage Tank Capacity

Volume of tank=Water Demand per Day x Number of Days
Where:
 Vₜₐₙₖ = Storage tank capacity (liters)
 Water Demand per Day = Average daily water consumption (liters per day)
Volume of tank=200liters/day×180days=36,000liters
Required storage tank capacity is 36,000 liters
C.Calculate the Number of Tanks Required
Number of Tanks= Required Tank Volume/Capacity of One Tank
Number of Tanks= 36,000liters/10,000liters/tank =3.6
Required 4 tanks to meet the storage requirements.

D.Estimate the Overflow

if the roof area is 100 m² and the expected rainfall intensity is 10 mm/hr, the overflow pipe
should be sized to handle 1,000 liters/hour
2. A building with a roof area of 120 m² and the average annual rainfall in your area is 1000 mm.
The roof is made of metal, so the runoff coefficient is 0.9. Calculate the expected annual
rainwater yield and the required storage tank capacity for a family with a daily water requirement
of 300 liters.

SOLUTION:
A. Calculate Annual Rainwater Yield:
Volume of annual=A×R×C
Volume of annual=120m 2×1m×0.9=108,000liters/year
So, the annual yield is 108,000 liters.
B. Determine Storage Tank Capacity:
Assuming the family requires 300 liters/day and you want to store water for 180 days:
Volume tank=300liters/day×180days=54,000liters
The required storage tank capacity is 54,000 liters.