Editorial
Recharging groundwater
A step in the right direction, but hardly enough
WE must thank Dhaka WASA for displaying some wisdom insofar as tackling the problems of depleting groundwater table is concerned. It should be complimented for initiating a project to artificially recharge the aquifers in and around the capital which we feel holds the potential of overcoming water scarcity as well as stem any chance of the ground sinking as a consequence of depletion of the water table. The process of artificial recharge is an apt water management tool that should adequately address both shortage of water supply as well as environmental concerns. We wonder why it had not been resorted to sooner.
However, the idea of a pilot project gives one the impression of an insufficient scale unless it is to determine the best technique of artificial recharging and leads to adequate and extensive replication. We feel that, given the pressing nature of the problem, the authorities must go for a large scale project including that of harvesting rainwater in the form reservoirs, in order to replenish groundwater on a sustained basis, as well as being utilised as a surface water source. All these can and should be implemented within a reasonable period of time. All this necessitates a comprehensive water management and use plan that is sadly missing.
Rain water harvesting is not new to us and in this context one could make use of local expertise and experience in addition to tapping in on regional experiences. One could also go for technical expertise from outside the region to enhance supply of water, both ground as well surface.
There is a critical need for a quick reduction in our over-reliance on groundwater; and this would involve reclaiming and saving the rivers and canals from illegal occupation as well as pollution. This would need the efforts of other government agencies as well to be implemented fully. And it would also entail recycling the waters through treatment plants. And that means having many more water treatment plants than WASA has at present.
We will never have enough water to drink and wash unless we ensured refilling the natural underground containers, and reduced the level of ground water extraction. Without that we are going to be faced with a raft of problems, with multifarious consequence like that of subsidence of land, among other things.
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