Desilting of Rainwater Harvesting Pits Campaign
Across Sumadhura communities, neighbouring residential associations, and government schools in Bengaluru
April 2024 – June 2024
Background
Bengaluru’s recurring water scarcity crisis has highlighted the urgent need to conserve and restore natural water systems. While most modern buildings have rainwater harvesting (RWH) structures, their effectiveness often fades due to neglect and lack of maintenance awareness.
Sumadhura Group recognized this challenge and launched the “Desilting of Rainwater Harvesting Pits Campaign” — a community-driven initiative to revive RWH systems, recharge groundwater, and spread awareness about sustainable water management.
The campaign began on Earth Day (April 22, 2024) and continued until World Environment Day (June 5, 2024), aligning with Sumadhura’s vision of restoring balance between urban development and environmental responsibility.
Objective: To rejuvenate rainwater harvesting pits across residential communities and government schools, enhance water percolation efficiency, and create awareness about periodic desilting.
Project Overview
Key Activities
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1. Desilting and cleaning of RWH pits to restore their full functionality.
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2. Awareness drives in communities and schools on the importance of regular pit maintenance.
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3. Collaboration with local residents, volunteers, and CSR teams for hands-on participation.
Impact Highlights
Locations Covered
20+ sites across Bengaluru, including residential communities and government schools.
RWH Pits Desilted
73 pits revived through the campaign.
Rainwater Recharge Capacity Restored
Approx. 35859960 litres of rainwater absorption potential reinstated.
Community Engagement
Over 1,200 individuals directly participated and benefitted through awareness sessions and active volunteering.
School Support
Several government institutions received free desilting support, overcoming their lack of maintenance funds.
SDG Goals
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Promoting sustainable water management and conservation.
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Encouraging responsible urban living practices.
SDG 13 - Climate Action
Building resilience against climate-induced water stress.
Final Outcome
The Desilting of Rainwater Harvesting Pits Campaign successfully turned a maintenance effort into a city-wide sustainability movement. With collective action and community participation, Sumadhura restored the lost efficiency of RWH systems and revived Bengaluru’s groundwater recharge capacity. More importantly, it inspired citizens to take ownership of their water systems — making small but significant steps toward a water-secure and sustainable future.
