Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s Kochi campus has implemented an advanced rainwater harvesting system, significantly contributing to groundwater recharge and flood prevention. This initiative is particularly impactful in addressing depleting groundwater levels and managing the adverse effects of monsoon flooding.
Key Features of the Rainwater Harvesting System
Rooftop Rainwater Collection
The main hospital building, with a large flow area of 17,000 sqm, channels rainwater from rooftops through downpipes to a common pipe system. This collected water is then directed to two large ponds on the campus’s island, each with a 65-lakh liter capacity, helping store substantial volumes of rainwater.
Stormwater Collection
Stormwater falling on both paved and unpaved campus areas is directed into 42 strategically placed rain pits of various dimensions. These rain pits, covered by metal bars, channel the water deep underground, promoting direct groundwater recharge.
Impact and Benefits
This system has proven effective during intense monsoon periods, mitigating flood risks on campus while enhancing groundwater levels. It serves as a model for sustainable water management, supporting both flood control and long-term water conservation.