3-Sustainable ground water management using temple tanks for urban micro watersheds

Abstract

Artificial recharge mechanisms are resorted to when natural recharge is not sufficient for sustainable ground water levels. In urban areas, where open space is highly limited, temple tanks offer excellent scope for rainwater collection and recharging. Their capacity in storing and subsequent recharging will be highly effective to keep water tables relatively high. An attempt is made to determine the efficacy of Karaneeswarar temple tanks constructed during olden days for religious purpose in Adyar basin of Saidapet in Chennai. Detailed studies were conducted around Karaneeswarar Temple tank area to assess the ground water flow direction, recharge area of temple tank; road network catchment area delineation, delineation of aquifer boundary. Moreover, sediment load is assessed for the karaneeswarar temple tank, in which part of storm drain network is connected but not interconnected (independent) with other networks and part of near by roads connected by peep holes. The direction and area of influence of ground water has been assessed by observing the water table level and performing a Tracer study. Based on tracer study results, the velocity of ground water in the Adyar alluvial aquifer is determined as 0.002m/sec.