VISVESVARAYA TECHNOLOGICAL
UNIVERSITY, BELAGAVI
B.L.D.E.A's V.P. DR. P.G. HALAKATTI COLLEGE OF
ENGINEERINGAND TECHNOLOGY, VIJAYAPUR – 586103
BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING IN COMPUTER SCIENCE &
ENGINEERING
SUBJECT : NSS
COURSE CODE : BNSK459
REPORT ON:
“WATER CONSERVATION TECHNIQUES”
Under the guidance of
Rajashekar Kanakaraddi
Submitted By
SOMANATH .S. BIJJARGI
USN : 2BL22CS174
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Content:
Sl no title Page no
1 Introduction 4
2 Principles of water 5
conservation
3 Water Crices in India 6-7
4 Water conservation 8
Techniques
5 Casestudy 9-10
6 Conclusion 11
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
An activity work of immense Sheer Size and it cannot be
proficient by an individual all by them ultimately, I am gratifying to a
number of individuals whose qualified guidance and assistance and
encouragement have made it a pleasant venture to undertake this
activity work. I am grateful to my Institution V.P.Dr. P.G. HALAKATTI
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY with its ideals and
inspiration for having provided us with the facilities, which has made
this activity work a success.
It is my pleasure to tender my heartfelt thanks to our College
Trustees for their vision behind, towards the successful completion of
our activity. I would like to express my gratitude to Dr.V.G.Sangam,
Principal BLDEACET, who is the source of inspiration as well providing
an amiable atmosphere to work in.
Further, I would like to express my kind gratitude towards, HOD,
Dept. Of CSE and the whole department for providing us kindly
environment for the successful completion of the activity work. I also
extend my sincere thanks to my activity work coordinator, for the
timely suggestions and co-operation throughout my dissertation.
It's my duty to thank one and all faculties of CSE Department,
who have directly or indirectly supported to accomplish the activity
work successfully. I would also like to thank my friends, who really
helped us to complete this activity work successfully.
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INTRODUCTION
Introduction:
Water is one of the most essential resources on our planet, vital for all forms of
life and a key component in numerous human activities. Despite its abundance, only a
small fraction of Earth's water is available for direct human use, making its
conservation crucial. With increasing population, urbanization, and the growing
impacts of climate change, the demand for water is rising, while the supply remains
finite. This necessitates the adoption of effective water conservation techniques to
ensure a sustainable future.
Water conservation encompasses strategies and activities that manage fresh
water as a sustainable resource, to protect the water environment, and to meet
current and future human demand. These techniques are not just about using less
water, but also about maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of water use. This
can include simple daily habits to sophisticated technologies and systems designed to
reduce water waste.
In this report, we will explore various water conservation techniques, ranging
from household practices to large-scale technological solutions. We will examine the
importance of conserving water, the benefits of various methods, and how individuals,
communities, and industries can implement these strategies. By understanding and
applying these techniques, we can contribute to the sustainable management of our
precious water resources.
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Principles of Water Conservation:
These principles are designed to minimize waste, promote efficiency, and
maintain the balance of natural water ecosystems. Here are some key principles
of water conservation:
1. Reduce Water Waste: The foremost principle of water conservation is
minimizing water waste. This involves fixing leaks, using water-efficient
appliances, and adopting practices that reduce unnecessary water use.
2. Promote Reuse and Recycling: Another key principle is the reuse and
recycling of water. Greywater systems, which recycle water from sinks,
showers, and washing machines for irrigation or toilet flushing, exemplify
this principle. Additionally, treating and reusing wastewater in industrial
processes can reduce the demand for fresh water.
3. Protect Water Quality: Conservation also involves maintaining and
improving water quality. Preventing pollution, managing runoff, and
avoiding the use of harmful chemicals are essential practices. Clean water
sources are more easily conserved and reused, and protecting water
quality helps ensure that our limited water supplies remain safe and
usable.
4. Public Education and Awareness: Educating the public about the
importance of water conservation and how they can contribute is
fundamental. Awareness campaigns, educational programs, and
community involvement are vital for fostering a culture of conservation.
When individuals understand the impact of their actions on water
resources, they are more likely to adopt sustainable practices.
5. Sustainable Water Management: Finally, integrating water conservation
into broader water management strategies is essential. This involves
planning and implementing policies that ensure long-term sustainability,
considering the needs of ecosystems, industries, and communities.
Sustainable water management aims to balance current needs with future
demands, ensuring the availability of water for generations to come.
6. Maximize Water Efficiency: Enhancing water use efficiency is crucial for
conservation. This principle involves using technology and practices that
optimize water use. Examples include installing low-flow showerheads
and toilets, employing drip irrigation systems in agriculture, and using
water-efficient industrial processes. Efficient water use reduces the overall
demand on water supplies and helps conserve this resource.
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Water Crisis in India
Water crisis refers to the situation where the available potable, safe water in
a region is less than its demand. The World Bank refers to water scarcity as
a condition when the annual per-capita availability is less than 1000 cubic
metres.
1.Reasons
• Rising water demand : According to NITI Aayog, India’s water
demand is increasing at a rapid rate. India’s water demand will
be twice the available supply by 2030. Also, the rate of depletion of
groundwater in India during 2041-2080 will be thrice the current
rate
• Climate Change : Climate Change has led to erratic
monsoon and reduced water levels in many rivers. This has induced
water crisis in India.
• Encroachment of Natural Water Bodies : There has been
destruction of lakes and small ponds to meet the infrastructure needs
of burgeoning populations. For ex- Encroachment of lakes in
Bengaluru.
• Detached Citizens : Since water is a free resource, it is not valued by
the citizens. Citizens are completely detached from the water issues.
• Lack of proactive management policies : Water management
policies in India have failed to keep pace with changing demands of
time. For ex- The Easement Act of 1882 granting groundwater
ownership rights to the landowner leading to indiscriminate use of
water resources.
2. What should be the Way Forward?
• Promotion of Water Conservation : Encouraging rainwater
harvesting to capture monsoon run-off. Also, traditional water
conservation practices like Kudimaramath practice (Tamil Nadu),
Ahar Pynes (Bihar), Bamboo Drip irrigation System(North-
East) must be revived.
• Nature-Based Solutions : Nature-based solutions refer to
the solutions that mimic natural processes to provide human ,
ecological a societal benefits. For ex- Artificial Floodplains to increase
water retention, Forest management to reduce sediment loadings.
• River Basin Management : River basin management must be done
through hydrological-basin approach rather than administrative
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boundaries. Also, steps must be taken to promote interlinking of
rivers, while addressing its environmental concerns.
• Evidence-based policy-making : We must create robust water data
systems with real-time monitoring capabilities. For ex- Andhra
Pradesh’s online water dashboard for mapping of hydrological
resources for better policymaking.
• Demand-side Management : States can adopt a participatory
approach with the involvement of local communities. For
ex- The Swajal model adopted by Uttarakhand focussing on
community-based management of water resources. Revival of
Johads in Rajasthan desert by Rajendra Singh (Waterman of India).
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Water Conservation Techniques:
➢ Rainwater Harvesting : Collecting and storing rainwater from
rooftops or other surfaces for later use . This reduces
dependency on municipal water supplies, replenishes
groundwater, and provides water for irrigation, flushing, and
other non-potable uses.
➢ Greywater Recycling: Reusing wastewater from sinks,
showers, and washing machines for irrigation and toilet
flushing. This reduces freshwater demand and can
significantly lower household water usage
➢ Low-Flow Fixtures: Installing water-saving fixtures such as
low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets. Reduces water
consumption in households and commercial buildings
without compromising performance.
➢ Smart Irrigation Controllers: Using sensors and weather data
to optimize watering schedules for landscapes and gardens.
Prevents overwatering, conserves water, and ensures plants
receive the right amount of water.
➢ Water-Efficient Appliances: Using washing machines,
dishwashers, and other appliances that are designed to use
less water. Lowers water and energy consumption in
households and businesses.
➢ Public Awareness and Education: Educating communities
about the importance of water conservation and how they
can contribute. Encourages collective action and fosters a
culture of water conservation
➢ Recycling and Reuse in Industry: Implementing processes to
recycle and reuse water within industrial operations. Reduces
freshwater withdrawal, lowers costs, and minimizes
environmental impact.
➢ Mulching: Applying a layer of organic or inorganic material on
the soil surface to retain moisture. Reduces evaporation,
suppresses weeds, and improves soil health.
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Case Study
“ Barishpur Water Conservation
Plant in Vijayapur, Karnataka”
Barishpur, a locality within Vijayapur (formerly Bijapur) in Karnataka, has
historically struggled with water scarcity due to its semi-arid climate and
insufficient natural water resources. To address these challenges, the local
government, in collaboration with NGOs and private entities, established the
Barishpur Water Conservation Plant. This initiative is part of a broader effort to
enhance water sustainability in the region
1. Objectives of the Barishpur Water Conservation Plant :
The main objectives of the Barishpur Water Conservation Plant include:
▪ Augmenting Water Supply: Treating and recycling wastewater to
increase the availability of usable water for agricultural, industrial,
and domestic purposes.
▪ Sustainable Water Management: Encouraging sustainable water
use practices through community engagement and education.
▪ Reducing Water Pollution: Treating wastewater to reduce pollution
in local water bodies, thereby protecting the environment and
public health.
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2. Impact on the Community:
The Barishpur Water Conservation Plant has made a substantial impact
on the local community in several ways :
▪ Community Involvement: Educational initiatives have heightened
community awareness and participation in water conservation
efforts, fostering a culture of sustainability.
▪ Economic Development: The availability of treated water has
supported local agricultural activities and industries, contributing
to economic growth and stability in the region.
▪ Improved Water Quality: By treating and reducing the pollution
load in wastewater, the plant has improved the quality of local
water bodies, fostering healthier ecosystems.
▪ Enhanced Water Availability: The plant has increased the supply
of water available for various uses, benefiting agriculture, industry,
and households in the area.
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Conclusion
Effective water conservation involves a holistic approach that includes reducing
water waste, maximizing efficiency, reusing and recycling water, and protecting
water quality. Public awareness and education are also essential in fostering a
culture of conservation and encouraging responsible water use at all levels of
society.
Water conservation is imperative for sustaining life and ecosystems on our
planet. As the global population grows and climate change intensifies, the
demand for freshwater continues to rise, placing unprecedented pressure on our
water resources. Effective water conservation requires a multifaceted approach
that includes technological innovations, efficient water management practices,
and behavioral changes.
Water conservation is not just an environmental necessity but a critical practice
for ensuring the sustainability and availability of one of our most vital resources.
As we face increasing pressures from population growth, climate change, and
industrial demands, the need to conserve and manage water resources
efficiently has never been more urgent. By adopting a variety of water
conservation techniques, from simple daily habits to advanced technological
solutions, we can significantly reduce water wastage and improve the efficiency
of water use.
Ultimately, water conservation is a collective responsibility that requires the
active participation of individuals, communities, industries, and governments.
By working together and embracing sustainable practices, we can safeguard our
water resources for current and future generations, ensuring that clean, safe,
and sufficient water remains available for all. The adoption of these practices
will not only help mitigate the impacts of water scarcity but also contribute to
the health and well-being of ecosystems and communities worldwide.
*****
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