Groundwater recharge in Bellandur

Bellandur, a suburb in southeast Bengaluru, has witnessed rapid growth due to the IT sector, bringing challenges in urban commuting, waste management, and water resource management. The absence of piped water and a limited supply from the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has led most residences to rely on private borewells. However, due to reduced yields, they’ve turned to expensive private water tankers. In 2019, the region faced a severe water crisis. Although the BWSSB licensed water tanker businesses to supply water at fixed rates and projected piped water supply by 2020, full supply is not expected until 2024’s Cauvery 5th phase.

To tackle this, residents initiated the “2500 Recharge Wells for Bellandur” campaign, focusing on replenishing groundwater. The campaign’s aim was to dig 2,500 recharge wells, based on the estimation that 5% of Bellandur’s 50,000 units needed these wells. Promoted heavily on social media, about 360 wells were dug before the pandemic.

To understand the campaign’s real-world application, let us look at three apartment complexes that undertook rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.

1. Aditi Elite Apartments focused on rainwater harvesting, successfully conserving water through rooftop harvesting and recharge wells. They highlighted the cost benefits to residents, saving around Rs. 12 lakh annually.

2. Ittina Anai Apartments efficiently uses treated wastewater for various purposes, reducing the need for freshwater. Their Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) upgrades allowed for a cleaner, odour-free water supply. Their water table rose significantly due to rainwater harvesting and the campaign.

3. Mantri Espana, located near Bellandur Lake, faced flooding issues. By introducing rainwater harvesting and digging recharge wells, they addressed the groundwater seepage and flooding problems.

In conclusion, Bellandur’s water challenges led to a community-driven campaign focusing on sustainable water management practices, primarily through recharge wells and rainwater harvesting. While the initiative faced challenges, its success serves as an example of community engagement in addressing local issues. The Bellandur Development Forum plans to continue these efforts, advancing towards water sustainability.

Here’s the detailed case study and a video of Mr Ashok Mrutyunjaya showing us the water management initiatives at Aditi Elite Apartments.