Rain water harvesting potential for different locations in the state of Maharashtra

This study assesses the potential of rooftop rainwater harvesting technique in the sustainable development of water resources in the state of Maharashtra. Rainwater harvesting is an ideal solution to overcome water problems where surface water sources are insufficient and groundwater supply is quantitatively and qualitatively inadequate. This method is particularly important in drought-prone, hilly, urban and coastal areas. Accordingly, rainwater harvesting is receiving increased attention worldwide as an alternative source of water; therefore this approach can be relevant as the individual as well as at the national level.

The document proposes that if rainwater is harvested, the scarcity of water can be eliminated altogether. The document lists three of the many advantages of rainwater harvesting:

• Rainwater harvesting will improve water supply, food production, and ultimately food security (p. 8).
• Water insecure households or individuals in rural areas will benefit the most from rainwater harvesting systems (p. 8). 
• Since rainwater harvesting leads to increased water supply which leads to improved food security, this will greatly contribute to income generation (p. 8). 

This document is published under Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 2.5 IN.