The Aug 16 Order of a Division Bench CHANDRA SHARMA, CHIEF JUSTICE, HIGH COURT OF DELHI and JUSTICE SANJEEV NARULA reads almost as though they are RainReach ambassadors! They are vocal, clear and stating the Mission Objectives of RainReach in way that we hope Governments everywhere are listening… A report.
 

The “unprecedented recent weather events” suggest rainwater harvesting should be seamlessly integrated into Delhi's climate resilience planning, said the division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula, in its order of Aug 16, 2023.
 

“… The evolving landscape of Delhi, where urbanisation and climate change intersect, amplifies the urgency of water conservation. The unwavering commitment of authorities is thus imperative. Rainwater harvesting should be seamlessly integrated into the city’s climate resilience planning.

"The relevance of proactively anticipating and preparing for extreme weather events, which are becoming increasingly commonplace due to climate change”, is heightened.

The authorities must continually explore innovative strategies and proactively confront emerging challenges. A persistent focus on educating the public and resident welfare associations about the advantages of rainwater harvesting, along with practical implementation guidance, can lead to a shift towards sustainable water practices.

Municipal Corporations and Development Authorities must periodically review empirical data on implementation of rainwater harvesting measures to ascertain whether their efforts are producing tangible results and take corrective measures if required.

The combined efforts of Water Boards and government authorities where they have installed rainwater harvesting systems across both private and public structures, along with reinvigoration of water bodies, must be appreciated and recognised.

“The development of manuals by CGWB and CPWD, offering guidance on artificial groundwater recharge structures and enabling individuals to seek necessary approvals, also represents a valuable step forward. The inclusion of rainwater harvesting mandates within building byelaws further underscores the commitment to water conservation. The Water Board’s introduction of water tariff rebates as incentives for rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling systems should serve as demonstration of their commitment to the cause,” the Delhi High Court said.

Civic agencies and municipal corporations which are responsible for approving building plans should take on the role of ensuring adherence to these mandatory provisions. The court observed that the urgency of water conservation has never been more paramount than in the present “dynamic urban landscapes”.

“Urbanisation, characterised by sprawling constructions, impermeable surfaces, and increased water consumption, strains existing water sources, leading to concerns about scarcity and depletion. In this context, the significance of rainwater harvesting as a viable solution cannot be overstated. By harnessing rainwater, which would otherwise go underutilised or contribute to flooding, cities can augment their water supply, alleviate stress on conventional sources, and mitigate the environmental repercussions of urban expansion,” the HC bench said.