Runoff Rainwater Harvesting
Runoff Rainwater Harvesting
Runoff Rainwater Harvesting
On
Submitted to
LUCKNOW
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
In
CIVIL ENGINEERING
By
PAWAN KUMAR
(2104220000037)
1
DECLARATION
I hereby certify that the work which is being presented in the mini project report
entitled “COMPUTATION OF SURFACE RUNOFF AND RAIN WATER
HARVESTING” by “PAWAN KUMAR” in partial fulfilment of requirements
for the award of degree “B.Tech(Civil Engineering)” Submitted in the
department of “Civil Engineering” at “Bansal Institute of Engineering &
Technology” under “Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam Technical University”, Lucknow
is an authentic record of my own work.
By
PAWAN KUMAR
Roll-No. (2104220000037)
ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to place on record my deep sense of gratitude to Asst Prof. Mr. Shakti Kumar
Dept. of Civil Engineering, Bansal institute of engineering and technology Lucknow
(UP)India for his generous guidance, help and useful suggestions.
I express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Md. Wasiq, HOD in Department of Civil Engineering,
BIET, Lucknow, for his stimulating guidance, continuous encouragement and supervision
throughout the course of present work.
PAWAN KUMAR
(2104220000037)
iii
ABSTRACT
The increasing demand for water resources due to urbanization and climate change has
necessitated effective management strategies for surface runoff and rainwater harvesting.
This study focuses on the computation of surface runoff using hydrological models,
evaluating factors such as rainfall intensity, land use, and soil characteristics. Additionally,
we explore the design and implementation of rainwater harvesting systems, assessing their
efficiency in capturing and utilizing runoff. By employing simulation tools and field
measurements, we quantify the potential water savings and highlight the environmental
benefits of integrating these systems into urban planning. The findings demonstrate that
optimized rainwater harvesting can significantly mitigate flooding, enhance groundwater
recharge, and provide a sustainable water supply. This research underscores the importance
of adaptive water management practices in promoting resilience to hydrological extremes.
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TABLE OF CONTENT
Chapter 1- Introduction
1.1 General.........................................................................................................................07
1.2 Objective......................................................................................................................07
1.5 Scope............................................................................................................................08
Chapter 3- Methodology
3.7 Quality................................................................................................................................19
Chapter-5
Conclusion...............................................................................................................................26
References..............................................................................................................................27
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3.1.1.............................................................................................................................12
Figure 3.1.1.1..........................................................................................................................12
Figure 3.1.1.2..........................................................................................................................12
Figure 3.1.1.6..........................................................................................................................13
Figure 3.1.2.............................................................................................................................15
Figure 3.2................................................................................................................................15
Figure 3.2.1.............................................................................................................................16
Figure 3.2.2.............................................................................................................................17
Figure 3.2.3.............................................................................................................................17
Figure 3.9.1.............................................................................................................................20
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CHAPTER 1- INTRODUCTION
1.1 General
Water scarcity is becoming an increasingly pressing issue worldwide, exacerbated by rapid
urbanization, population growth, and climate change. As cities expand, the impervious
surfaces created by roads, buildings, and other infrastructure significantly alter natural
hydrological processes. This leads to increased surface runoff, which can cause flooding,
erosion, and water quality degradation. At the same time, the potential for utilizing this runoff
as a resource remains largely untapped.
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) presents a viable solution to address both water scarcity and
surface runoff challenges. By capturing and storing rainwater, communities can supplement
their water supply, reduce reliance on conventional sources, and mitigate the impacts of urban
runoff. The effectiveness of RWH systems depends on various factors, including local
climate, rainfall patterns, and the design of the system itself.
This study aims to compute surface runoff using established hydrological models,
considering variables such as rainfall intensity, land use, and soil type. We will also analyze
the design and implementation of RWH systems, evaluating their capacity to effectively
capture and utilize rainwater. Through simulations and field data collection, we will assess
the potential benefits of these systems in urban environments.
With rainwater harvesting structures specifically designed for small buildings and markets
which covers most of the area of individual sectors, the additional pressure on the wells for
water pumping can be limited and various areas can be developed where the rainwater can
recharge those wells, the parks or the green areas can also be helpful in recharging with right
plant choice. This will also help in finding adequate zone for water harvesting catchment and
storage.
1.2 Objectives:
The main objective of rainwater harvesting are
i. To meet the increasing demands of water
ii. To supplement groundwater supplies during lean season
iii. To raise the water table by recharging groundwater
iv. Reducing groundwater contamination
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1.3 Use of Harvested Rainwater:
Harvested rainwater can be used in almost every way water from a well or other supply can
be used. If the water is to be used for drinking (potable), food preparation, or other direct
human consumption, it needs to be filtered to improve the flavour and remove pathogens,
grit, and other particles. At the very least, it should be boiled at a rolling boil for at least one
minute to kill disease-causing organisms.
1.5 Scope :
Proper management of runoff (e.g., using retention ponds or permeable surfaces) can
help reduce environmental damage and harness water for agricultural, industrial, or
municipal use.
In urban areas, it helps mitigate flooding and recharge groundwater aquifers.
It involves collecting and storing rainwater for later use, reducing dependency on
groundwater or external water supplies.
It's particularly useful in arid or semi-arid regions, as it offers a sustainable, low-cost
alternative.
The harvested water can be used for irrigation, household consumption, and industrial
purposes, promoting water conservation and reducing infrastructure strain.
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CHAPTER-2
LITERATURE REVIEW
Helmreich & Horn (2008) gave general model of the RWH in semi-arid region n of sub-
Saharan Africa where discrete water flow components are used for the rainfall partitioning.
The soil evaporation accounts for 30 50% of the losses and 10 to 25% is surface runoff
whereas the surface runoff is subsequently increased when the surface is hard and paved. It
was then combined with the statistical data depicting the demand satisfied with the tank size
and was found that the graph tends to get linear with the increase in the size of the tank.
Shrivastava et al (2019) purposed design of the rooftop harvesting system in a seacoast high
rainfall zone of south Gujarat, due to nearness to the sea the area suffers ingress water supply
and overexploitation of the groundwater. The study is a four-year extensive and the water
studied is stored for more than 2 years for physical chemical and micro bacterial quality
assurance. The roof water was collected from 6 rooftops of the campus measuring around
3085m2 in total. In the first year of study, it was concluded that the water’s physically had
peculiar rotten smell and black residue carbon from atmosphere. The chemical quality of
harvested water using RBD methods showed that the quality of water in terms of TDS is far
better than ground water i.e., 1440tds. The micro bacterial quality of the water in terms of
MPN of faecal coliform/100ml was observed to be less than municipal water supply however
it increased with the first year of storage and then decreased extensively due to enclosed
conditions of the tanks. The efficiency of different bacterial removal methods was also studied with
an achievement where E. coli bacteria was not found out in any treatment.
Mishra & Tembhurkar (2018) discussed the application of filters such as sand and foam filter in
combination for rooftop RWHS in buildings such that the water shortage and scarcity can be
minimized with sustainable approach in storing and collection of water for the needs of future. The
area selected was a girl’s hostel building in VNIT Nagpur campus covering 4980m2. The per capita
consumption of water in a day was calculated in litre/day for all activities washing, cleaning, and
flushing. According to the experiments, it was found that the dual media filter combination is
acceptable for treating rainwater with addition of little disinfectant like chlorine during its utilization.
From experiments it was found that in this dual media filter single layer of foam works better than
double layers.
Rahman et al (2010) examined the sustainability of rainwater collection by harvesting in
multi storey apartments taking a hypothetical approach to create various scenarios related to
site area and floor arrangement. The water demand was assumed that it would be only used
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for flushing laundry and irrigation. The life cycle costing was developed assuming
material cost,
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maintenance, and operation cost. The operation cost was estimated following pump running
time and pump operating cost. It was possible to achieve “payback” under most favourable
financial condition and the benefit to cost ratio is smaller with the BASIX approach than non-
BASIX approach.
Goel & Kumar (2004) proposed a generalization to find the best suitable economic analysis
of watershed in rainwater harvesting. The purpose was to increase the agricultural
productivity and minimize soil erosion I the mountainous region of India. With an estimated
life of water retaining structures of different sizes ageing 25 to 40 years, the ratios were found
out to be 0.41 to 1.33. The PVANR i.e., valuation of construction and maintenance for
present value was
$215/ ha. Made based on sizes and the value decreased with the increase in the size of the
structure. It was projected that the overall expenditure projected was around 15.15-2.20 m
US$ and the net income from the proposed catchment plan would be around 1.18-3.86 m.
hence it underlined that projected cost will be recovered in 13.17 years if the minimum life
span of structure is 25 years.
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CHAPTER-3
METHODOLOGY 3.1
1. Collection: Water is collected from rooftops, paved surfaces, or open fields that
contribute to surface runoff.
3. Usage: The stored water can be used for agricultural, domestic, or industrial purposes.
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3.1.2 Components of Surface Runoff Rainwater Harvesting.
Surface runoff rainwater harvesting involves several key components that work together to
capture, store, and utilize rainwater that would otherwise flow away as runoff. The main
components of this system are:
1. Catchment Area:
This is the surface (such as a roof, paved area, or sloped land) where rainwater collects and
flows off as surface runoff. the design and material of the catchment area influence the
quality and quantity of water that can be harvested.
2. Gutter/Collection System:
Gutter systems or channels are installed along the edges of the catchment area (typically
along the roof) to collect the runoff water. These gutters direct the water into the next
component of the system.
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may carry contaminants like dust, debris, or other impurities. The first flush is usually not
collected, as it is typically of poor quality. After this initial runoff,Cleaner water is directed
into storage.
4. Conduits/Downspouts:
These are pipes or channels that transport the water from the gutters to the storage system.
They guide the collected water from the catchment area to the storage tank or reservoir.
6. Filtration System:
Before the water is stored or used, it is often filtered to remove smaller particles, dirt, and
debris. Filtration systems like mesh filters, sand filters, or charcoal filters ensure that the
water remains clean and safe for use.
7. Distribution System:
Once the water is stored, it is distributed for use. The distribution system includes pipes,
pumps, or gravity-fed systems that direct the water to various points of use, such as for
irrigation, domestic consumption, or groundwater recharge.
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8. Overflow System:
In the event of heavy rainfall or if the storage system is full, an overflow system ensures that
excess water is safely diverted away from the storage area to prevent flooding. This can
involve directing the excess water to a stormwater drain or to a recharge pit for groundwater
replenishment.
Roof Top Rainwater Harvesting Method can be adopted at individual homes or schools where
the rainwater is captured from the roof catchments of domestic houses or commercial
buildings, diverts, and stored in tanks.
Harvested rainwater can either be stored in a tank or diverted to an artificial recharge system
to meet daily needs such as flushing toilets, washing machines, washing vehicles, gardening,
showers, sinks, and baths.
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(fig.3.1.2.:Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting)
a) Catchment Area: The surface which directly receives the rainfall and provides water
to the system is called catchment area. It can be a paved area like a terrace or
courtyard of a building, or an unpaved area like a lawn or open ground.
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c) Filtration: The filter is used to remove suspended pollutants from rainwater collected
over roof. A filter unit is a chamber filled with filtering media such as fibre, coarse
sand, and gravel layers to remove debris and dirt from water before it enters the
storage tank or recharge’s structure. Charcoal can be added for additional filtration.
d) Storage Faciality: There are different options available for the construction of these
tanks in terms of form, height, construction material and tank location and they are: –
Shape: Cylindrical, Square and Rectangular.
Material of construction: Reinforced cement concrete, (RCC), ferrocement,
masonry, plastic (polyethylene) or metal (galvanised iron) sheets are commonly used.
Position of tank: Depending on space availability these tanks could be constructed
above ground, partly underground or fully underground. Some maintenance measures
like cleaning and disinfection are required to ensure the quality of water stored in the
container.
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3.3 Why Do We Harvest Rainwater?
The rainwater harvesting system is one of the best methods practised and followed to support
the conservation of water. Today, scarcity of good quality water has become a significant
cause of concern. However, rainwater, which is pure and of good quality, can be used for
irrigation, washing, cleaning, bathing, cooking and for other livestock requirements.
• Less cost.
• Helps in reducing the water bill.
• Decreases the demand for water.
• Reduces the need for imported water.
• Promotes both water and energy conservation.
• Does not require a filtration system for landscape irrigation.
• This technology is relatively simple, easy to install and operate.
• It reduces soil erosion, stormwater runoff, flooding, and pollution of surface water
with fertilizers, pesticides, metals, and other sediments.
Listed below are a few more disadvantages of the rainwater harvesting process.
• Regular maintenance is required.
• Requires some technical skills for installation.
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• Limited and no rainfall can limit the supply of rainwater.
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• If not installed correctly, it may attract mosquitoes and other waterborne diseases.
• One of the significant drawbacks of the rainwater harvesting system is storage limits.
3.7 Quality:
The convergence of impurities is decreased fundamentally by redirecting the underlying
progression of spillover water to waste.[1] Further developed water quality can likewise be
gotten by utilizing a drifting drawoff system (as opposed to from the foundation of the tank)
and by utilizing a progression of tanks, with draw from the rearward in series. The put away
water might should be dissected appropriately before use in a manner fitting to guarantee its
protected utilize The nature of gathered water is by and large better compared to that of
surface water. Defilement is consistently conceivable via airborne residue and fogs, bird
faces, and other garbage, so some treatment might be important, contingent upon how the
water will be utilized
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of this system and draw Maximum advantages from it, we need to have large surface areas
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which Will be going to act as catchment areas. More the catchment areas more will be the
surface runoff, and thus more will be the amount of harvested water.
Q = C.I.A
Similarly, based on the above principle, water harvesting potential of the catchment area was
calculated.
The total amount of water that is received from rainfall over an area is called the rainwater
legacy of that area. And the amount that can be effectively harvested is called the water
harvesting potential. The formula for calculation for harvesting potential or volume of water
received or runoff produced or harvesting capacity is given as:-
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VOLUME OF WATER RECEIVED = CATCHMENT AREA * RAINFALL * RUNOFF
COFF.
Runoff coefficient for any catchment is the ratio of the volume of water that runs off a surface
to the volume of rainfall that falls on the surface. Runoff coefficient accounts for losses due to
spillage, leakage, infiltration, catchment surface wetting and evaporation, which will all
contribute to reducing the amount of runoff. Runoff coefficient varies from 0.5 to 1.0. In
present problem statement, runoff coefficient is equal to 1 as the surface runoff area is totally
impervious.
Finally, we need to store the water which is obtained from the surface runoff areas of the
different buildings. The volume of tank which stores the harvested water will be directly
proportional to the total volume of water harvested.
1) Rational Method
Rational Method
The Rational Method is a widely used approach for estimating peak surface runoff from a
small urban or rural catchment area. This method is generally used for designing stormwater
drainage systems, flood control, and estimating the runoff in urban areas with limited
information.
Key Formula
The Rational Method calculates the peak flow (Q) of runoff using the formula:
Q=C⋅I⋅A
Where:
Q = Peak runoff (flow) in cubic feet per second (cfs) or cubic meters per second (cms)
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I = Rainfall intensity (inches per hour or mm per hour) corresponding to the duration of
the design storm (typically 5, 10, or 15 minutes)
The Rapid Depletion Method is a method used to estimate the runoff from a catchment during
or after a rainfall event, especially when dealing with urban stormwater management. It is a
simplified method often employed for small drainage areas and is based on the assumption that
runoff occurs rapidly due to the fast infiltration and storage characteristics of the catchment.
The total volume of runoff is calculated by considering the rainfall depth, the catchment
area, and the runoff coefficient (similar to the Rational Method). The formula often used in
the Rapid Depletion Method is:
Q(t)=(R−S)⋅(1/T)⋅e−t/T
Where:
GIS ANALYSIS: -
A geographic information system (GIS) is computer software that allows our young students,
researchers and investigators to manage and manipulate interactions between data and
geographic locations. GIS technology has the sophistication to go beyond mapping as simply a
data management tool. GIS can integrate georeferenced imagery as data layers or themes and
link them to other data sets to produce geospatial representations of data. These geographical
pictures not only depict geographic boundaries but also offer special insight to students and
researchers across disciplines such as health, economics, agriculture, and transportation.
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CHAPTER-4
Surface water Runoff rainwater harvesting Potential in the study area has estimated by using
Formula (1999): S = R*A*C
Where,
S = Potential of Surface water rainwater harvesting (In cum.)
R = Average annual rain falls in m.
A = Surface area in Sq. m
C = Coefficient of
Runoff Required Data
Surface Area=260.465 m2
Length of Surface Area=21.341 m
Breadth=12.195 m
Avg. Annual rainfall = 1180mm (From India Meteorological
Department) Runoff Coefficient for Ground surface = 0.9 Approx(From
IS Code) Daily Requirement of water = 20litres /day
Number of Member in family = 5
Annual water harvesting potential = Surface Area(m2)*Annual avg. Rainfall (m)*runoff
coefficient
=260.465*1.180*0.9
=276.613 m3
=276613 litres
The tank capacity has to be designed for per year when the avg. water used per person is 20
litre per day and the household has five family members.
Water demand = 20liters*5member*365days
=36500litres
As factor of safety, the tank size should be increased by 20%
Quantity of water to be stored in the tank = 1.2*36500
=43800 Litres
= 43.80 m3
Now as per our needs we have to design rectangular tank
Now assumed height of water tank = say 4m
Now find the area of water tank = 43.80/4 = 10.95 sq.m
Now we have to find out the length and width of the water tank
So take under root on the water tank area
Sqrt.10.95 = 3.31
So now dimension of the water tank So now dimension of the water tank
Height of water tank = 4m
Length of water tank = 3.31m
Width of water tank = 3.31m
The above water tank design of water is for 1 year it mean this water tank works for one year
for 5 member family.
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CHAPTER- 5
CONCLUSION
In this study, analysis is made to estimate the potential of surface water runoff rainwater
harvesting to meet the general demands of water in the study area. To achieve the objectives
of the study the applications of Google Earth Pro was used for digitizing the available Surface
area in the institution. Surface water runoff rainwater harvesting Potential in the study area
has estimated by using Gould and Nissen (1999) Formula. The results showed that the
volume of water can be harvested from Surface Area are observed as 276613liters to the total
annual water demand 43800liters.
Hence the total water demand is completely satisfied considering 20lpcd to meet the daily
requirement of the water demand for a household with a 5 members in a family. Thus, the
mentioned work concludes emphasizing that Surface water runoff Rainwater harvesting
system is the suitable alternative available to meet the increasing water problems, in the study
area. Rainwater Harvesting contributes to reduce the pressure on groundwater therefore; it
should be promoted to the maximum possible extent. Planning Surface Water Runoff Rain
water Harvesting is a very cost effective solution for educational institutions as its buildings
will have huge surface area and the amount of water which can be stored will give a
promising solution to the water demand.
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