Date:18/09/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/09/18/stories/2007091850700200.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Groundwater level expected to improve

Staff Reporter

CHENNAI: Groundwater levels that saw a considerable rise across the city after rains last year is expected to be sustained with this year’s northeast monsoon, according to Chennai Metrowater.

Rainwater harvesting in the city and suburbs contributed to the improvement of groundwater quality and level in January this year, said a Metrowater study. “We expect the water level to sustain or improve by January 2008 after the northeast monsoon this year,” said a Metrowater official. Between June 1 and September 12 this year, the city and suburbs recorded 60 per cent more rainfall than the average of 36 cm during the period every year. The study was based on the monitoring of water level in about 750 RWH observation wells in the city.

In order to reap the benefit of RWH, Metrowater urged residents to check the condition of their RWH structures before the onset of the monsoon. Residents may contact the respective Metrowater area or depot offices for guidance on maintaining the structures. Call RWH cell on 28454080 or visit www.chennaimetrowater.tn.nic.in website. .