Rainwater harvesting is a method to capture and store rainwater for various uses. It is also used to recharge groundwater aquifers. It is a low-cost and eco-friendly technique for preserving every drop of water by guiding the rainwater to borewells, pits and wells. Rainwater harvesting increases water availability, checks the declining groundwater table, improves the quality of groundwater through the dilution of contaminants, like fluoride and nitrates, prevents soil erosion, and flooding and arrests saltwater intrusion in coastal areas if used to recharge aquifers.

When was the Water Cess Act passed in India?

1977

The legislative provisions such as the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act 1974, and Environment Protection Act 1986 have not been implemented effectively. The result is that in 1997, 251 polluting industries were located along the rivers and lakes. The Water Cess Act, 1977, meant to reduce pollution has also made marginal impacts. There is a strong need to generate public awareness about importance of water and impacts of water pollution. The public awareness and action can be very effective in reducing the pollutants from agricultural activities, domestic and industrial discharges.