Define rainwater harvesting. Explain why rainwater harvesting is important in major cities of the country?

Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting and storing rainwater that falls on rooftops, land surfaces, or any catchment area, for later use. This technique involves the capture, diversion, and storage of rainwater, typically for purposes like irrigation, landscape maintenance, and even potable water supply after proper treatment.

In major cities, rainwater harvesting plays a crucial role for several reasons. Firstly, rapid urbanization often leads to increased surface sealing with impermeable materials like concrete and asphalt, which reduces natural groundwater recharge. As a result, cities experience increased surface runoff during rain events, leading to urban flooding and strain on drainage systems. Rainwater harvesting helps mitigate these issues by capturing rainwater before it becomes runoff, reducing the burden on drainage infrastructure and preventing flooding.

Secondly, many cities face water scarcity due to factors such as growing populations, changing climate patterns, and limited freshwater sources. Rainwater harvesting provides an alternative, decentralized water supply that can supplement municipal water sources, particularly during dry seasons or droughts. This reduces reliance on centralized water distribution systems and alleviates pressure on freshwater reserves.

Moreover, rainwater harvesting promotes sustainability and resilience in urban environments. By capturing rainwater locally, cities can reduce their dependence on distant water sources, lower energy consumption associated with water treatment and transportation, and decrease the environmental impact of water extraction. Additionally, utilizing rainwater for non-potable purposes like irrigation and toilet flushing conserves precious freshwater resources for essential uses.

Overall, rainwater harvesting offers numerous benefits for major cities, including flood mitigation, water resource management, and environmental sustainability. Implementing widespread rainwater harvesting practices can help cities become more resilient, self-sufficient, and environmentally responsible in the face of urbanization and water scarcity challenges.