In an effort to secure Mumbai’s water future, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to revive traditional wells within its jurisdiction by constructing ‘pit recharge’ systems around them. The initiative, launched by BMC’s Environment Department, aims to recharge the groundwater level of original wells by building recharge pits near 200 of the city’s 350 known wells in the initial phase.
The method involves digging pits adjacent to wells, with dimensions tailored to local soil conditions and the specific needs of each well. These pits are filled with materials like large stones, wood, and soil, allowing rainwater and surface runoff to percolate into the ground efficiently. This recharging process helps naturally increase the water level of the nearby well.
Officials explain that this technique ensures rainwater is not wasted through surface runoff but instead seeps underground, enhancing groundwater reserves. BMC plans to construct recharge pits near 50 wells in the first phase. If successful, the initiative will be extended to other public and private wells across Mumbai after a detailed water-level assessment.
One such pilot project is underway at the JJ School of Arts campus, where a well contains saline water. BMC has appointed a specialized agency to implement the recharge system there.
Survey Conducted at 26 Locations
The Groundwater Survey and Development Agency (GSDA), under the central government, has conducted surveys of wells and borewells in collaboration with BMC. The survey identified 26 locations across Mumbai, including Film City in Goregaon, All India Radio premises in Malad West, Kannamwar Nagar in Vikhroli, and Shivaji Park. These sites are being considered for recharge projects and other water-conservation efforts, expected to be implemented over the next one to two years.
Mumbai’s growing demand for water poses a major challenge for the BMC. The city has a large number of wells, borewells, and ring wells, many of which are used by private owners and developers for water extraction. A number of these are also under BMC’s control and supply water via tankers. However, continuous pumping has led to a significant drop in groundwater levels.
To counter this, BMC’s Environment Department has launched a study of existing wells and borewells across the city, aiming to revive them as a sustainable water resource for the future.
