Rainwater Harvesting
2. Answer the following questions.
a) What is the meaning of the term ‘harvesting’?
A.Rainwater harvesting is the process of bringing down the rainwater falling on roofs
and terraces using closed pipes and directing it to storage tank or well from where
the water can be used.
b) Why is there a water crisis in our country?
A. Rising population, expanding industrialization and growing agriculture over the years
have intensified the need for water. The water in the lakes and rivers are insufficient
to meet the needs of the people. Hence, there is water crisis in our country.
c) What has led to the depletion of groundwater?
A. The residential localities and industries are drawing out ground water from wells to
fulfill their daily requirements. This has led to depletion of ground water.
d) How does a lot of rain water in cities get wasted?
A.The urban layout of the city causes all the rainwater from the roof and all the
groundwater areas surrounding the house to flow towards the street, from where it
goes down the drains and runs off as sewage water. Thus, a lot of water in the
urban areas get wasted.
e) Can water from rainwater harvesting system be used for drinking? Give reasons
for your answer.
A.The water from rainwater harvesting may not be directly used for drinking since the
same may contain impurities such as dirt from the rooftops and animals dropping
that may be harmful for human health. Only when it passes through the process of
filtration system will the water be fit for drinking.
