97.5% of the earth’s water is saline; out of the remaining 2.5% freshwater, just 0.5% is readily available for human use. Adding insult to injury, Global warming and climate change are dangerously affecting this freshwater supply. 

Water is a precious resource, and with climate change knocking at our doors, conserving it has become more important than ever. Our ancestors were aware of the importance of water as they developed and used methods for water conservation.

Some of those traditional water conservation methods are still relevant and can be used not only for irrigation and general usage but also for the recharge of groundwater.

In this blog, we will explore five traditional methods of water conservation that are still very effective and can be used in modern scenarios. 

What’s the need of Water Conservation

As per a report by WHO, 2.3 billion people lack access to safe drinking water globally. The severe effects of water scarcity can be seen in Metro and Big cities like Delhi, where almost no fresh groundwater is available. To balance demand and supply, we need to adopt effective water conservation schemes.

Water is vital for all living beings and agriculture. Alone, agriculture accounts for 70% of freshwater withdrawals. Freshwater, in fact, all-natural resources, is limited. Growing populations and climate change put enormous pressure on this resource. Conservation helps ensure its availability for future generations.

In short, water conservation is imperative for a sustainable future. It protects our environment, ensures economic stability, promotes public health, and contributes to climate change solutions.

By making conscious choices, raising awareness campaigns, and adopting some of the traditional methods of water conservation, we can ensure this precious resource is available for all.

Traditional Methods of Water Conservation

So, let’s dive into the five traditional water conservation methods that have sustained local communities across India.

1. Talab/Bandhis (Reservoirs)

Talabs were a popular traditional water conservation method in regions like Uttar Pradesh. A square or rectangular area is dug to store rainwater from catchment areas during monsoon season.

The government has taken the initiative through NREGA and MGNREGA schemes for talab creation in rural areas. Villagers also actively participate in maintaining and desilting talabs and ensuring their longevity.

This water conservation method provides a reliable water source for multiple purposes, especially during dry seasons. More than 70% of the population lives in rural India, and tabs can be the best source of fresh water for groundwater recharge.

2. Johad (Community Ponds)

Johad is a simple yet remarkably effective method of water conservation in Rajasthan. In this traditional method, villagers build earthen embankments across natural depressions or low-lying areas.

During monsoons, these Johad store precious rainwater, which can be used in the dry season to support agriculture. Johad is also very good at recharging groundwater.

While the core principle remains the same, modern technology, like satellite imagery, geotextiles, drip irrigation, and more, can increase Johand’s effectiveness.

3. Bawdi/Jhalara (Stepwells)

Bawdis or step-wells are architectural marvels found predominantly in the arid regions of Rajasthan and Gujarat. Their effectiveness lies in their thoughtful design and practical utility. 

In the monsoon season, rainwater fills the Bawdi/Jhalara, and the large catchment area around the Bawadi collects rainwater efficiently. 

Bawadi were designed in such a way that the surface area was not exposed to direct sunlight, reducing evaporation losses. Even after the monsoon, the stored water remains available throughout the year.

Bawdis are not just functional structures but part of India’s rich heritage. Some Bawdi still exist in northern India as heritage.

4. Naada/Bandha (Earthen Bunds)

Naadas or bandhas were very popular in Uttar Pradesh and Odisha. These Bandha were created by villagers at the streams on rivers, man-made rivers, and small rivers by earthen bunds.

The water stored in Naada is being used for irrigation and general purposes. These bunds enhance soil fertility and support crop cultivation, allowing groundwater recharge.

Naada is being used in some parts of the rural areas for irrigation purposes. Modern technology can enhance the effectiveness of these traditional methods of water conservation.

5. Ahar Pynes (Floodwater Harvesting)

Ahar Pynes could be considered one of the best traditional methods of water conservation. As we all know, Bihar sees heavy floods yearly because of the Koshi river, so the people in Bihar have made a way to store and conserve water.

Ahar pynes consist of interconnected channels and embankments. During floods, excess water is diverted into these channels and embankments. After floods, villagers use the water for multiple purposes, especially irrigation throughout the year. 

On top of that, Ahar Pynes was recharging groundwater in an unprecedented way.

Read Also: How To Calculate Water Tank Capacity

Traditional Wisdom in Daily Habits

Small changes in daily routines can make a significant impact. Here are some ways in which you can save water. These water-saving practices are passed down through generations:

• Shorter showers: Aim for 5-minute showers instead of longer ones. Every minute saved translates to gallons conserved.
• Fix leaky faucets and taps: Even a tiny drip wastes gallons daily. Promptly repair leaks to prevent unnecessary water loss.
• Full loads only: Run washing machines and dishwashers only when fully loaded to maximize water efficiency per cycle.
• Reuse dishwater: Use cooled dishwater to water houseplants or clean outdoor areas, minimizing drain waste.

Conclusion

A significant portion of India’s population resides in rural areas, where agriculture is vital to the nation’s economy. This high demand for freshwater for irrigating fields, coupled with the ample space available, makes traditional methods of water conservation particularly well-suited for rural India.