Harvesting Rainwater A Path to Flood and Drought Resilience

The northeast monsoon, once a symbol of nostalgia for Chennai’s residents, has become a source of fear due to recurring floods. Addressing these anxieties, NGO Arappor Iyakkam held an insightful discussion in Nungambakkam, urging residents to embrace sustainable rainwater harvesting as a long-term solution to both floods and water scarcity. The session highlighted the potential of rainwater management in mitigating urban water crises.

Arappor Iyakkam emphasised that Chennai’s vulnerability stems from mismanaged waterbodies and inadequate urban planning. Haris Sultan, a member of the NGO, advocated for households to harvest 80% of the rainwater within their premises to significantly reduce floodwater runoff. He compared aquifers to banks, underscoring the importance of replenishing them through effective waterbody maintenance. Desilting and deepening waterbodies up to 20 feet, he said, could enhance groundwater recharge and flood prevention.

Chennai’s rivers and lakes, reliant solely on monsoon rains, are increasingly unable to sustain the city’s water needs during dry spells. Sultan lamented the loss of historical waterbodies, such as Mogappair lake, which once played a pivotal role in water storage and flood mitigation. Their disappearance has exacerbated runoff and slowed drainage, leaving the city ill-equipped for heavy rains.

From a sustainability perspective, community participation in rainwater harvesting can transform urban resilience. By reducing runoff and recharging groundwater, such practices not only alleviate flooding but also secure water resources for future generations. Furthermore, ensuring adherence to tender norms in desilting and stormwater drainage projects, as suggested by Arappor Iyakkam, can promote accountability and efficiency in urban planning. With Chennai facing a dual threat of floods and droughts, this grassroots approach is a vital step toward sustainable urban living.