Mumbai: The BMC is set to launch a new initiative aimed at conserving water and replenishing Mumbai’s depleting underground water table. Under this project, four borewells will be constructed across the city to facilitate rainwater harvesting and the distribution of recycled water for non-potable public use. Work is expected to begin next week.
Project Aims to Combat Groundwater Depletion and Seawater Intrusion
Mumbai has several wells and borewells, both private and under BMC. Due to excessive extraction, groundwater levels have dropped, with some wells in city and suburbs showing seawater intrusion and becoming unusable.
To revive them, BMC’s Environment and Climate Change Department plans to build recharge wells nearby to restore water levels and ensure future water sustainability.
Four Borewells to Be Built Across Mumbai for Rainwater Harvesting and Water Recycling
Accordingly, a pilot project is implemented to install borewells at strategic locations including Baptista Road Market, Cresto Mukund House, BEST Depot, and the Fire Brigade premises on SV Road. With an estimated budget of Rs 28.3 lakh, the project aims to strengthen Mumbai’s water conservation efforts and is slated for completion within three months.
Advanced Filtration and Recharge System to Improve Water Conservation
Civic officials note that increased road concretisation has reduced Mumbai’s natural rainwater absorption, leading to rapid runoff. To counter this, 2–3 metre-deep borewells will serve as catchment pits, using pipelines and natural slopes to channel rainwater through sand, pebble, and gravel filters for ground percolation. Soil testing by certified geologists will be done before excavation, and regular maintenance will ensure the pits remain effective and unclogged.
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"Each recharge well involves an estimated cost of Rs 4 to Rs 5 lakh. These wells will be located near buildings, where rainwater from rooftops currently flows directly onto the roads through existing pipelines. To make better use of this water, a new pipeline connection will be added to divert it into the recharge wells. The collected rainwater will then be filtered and directed into nearby wells. A dedicated filtration system will also be installed close to the recharge wells. This initiative will ensure efficient utilisation of rainwater, help replenish groundwater levels, and contribute to resolving local water scarcity issues," said a senior civic official. a
