Question

Briefly explain rooftop rain water harvesting in Rajasthan

Answer 1

In semi arid regions of Rajasthan rainwater harvesting is carried out in their own manner. Houses have traditionally constructed underground tanks or ‘tankas’ for storing rainwater which they use for drinking and other purposes. These are big and are a part of well-developed rooftop rainwater harvestingsystem. These tanks are constructed inside the main house or the courtyard and are connected to the sloping roofs of the houses through a pipe. The rain falling on the rooftop travels down through the pipe and is stored in the tanks(tankas). The first spell of rain is not collected as this water cleans the roof and pipes.

During summer when all other sources of water dry up, these tanks remain the best source of water. The water is sweet and cool here and also help in keeping the houses cool due to conduction.