Rainwater harvesting is an easy way to collect water during the rainy season and store it for use during the dry season. The farmers in our village are greening their lands and combating weather vagaries through rainwater harvesting using small dams.

This technique provides an independent water supply during regional water shortage and in the developed world is often used to increase the main supply. It provides water when there is a drought and can help mitigate flooding of low-lying areas.

The idea of rainwater harvesting needs to be paid more attention.

The first step is to construct a mini dam for rainwater harvesting. A natural stream near farmland is identified and then obstructed by constructing a wall in the front. Then an engine is used to supply water through a pipeline to farms.

Mini reservoirs and rainwater harvesting techniques could help Pakistan increase its water storage capacity from 30 days to the international standard of 120 days.

Rainwater harvesting methods could irrigate more lands, besides helping raise the groundwater table from 450 feet to 200 feet. It will also provide drinking water and increase incomes of subsistence farmers. It could also prove a better adaptation strategy in the face of adverse impact of climate change if farmers are trained in using drip and sprinkle irrigation techniques to conserve water.

The government should initiate an awareness campaign to educate the masses about the issue.

Inam ul Haq

Bhagwal, District Chakwal

Published in Dawn, May 29th, 2016