Bhungroo means straw in Gujrati
A Geneva-based firm Firmenich has installed a unique water harvesting system, named Bhungroo, near Coimbatore to help farmers overcome water deficiency during dry months.
About Bhungroo
Bhungroo is an indigenous method for harvesting stormwater by using a straw. This technology is most prevalent in arid parts of Gujarat. The technology developed by Biplab Paul supplies abundant water in the dry months and also lessens the salt content in the soil. The technology ensures that floodwater seeps through a straw into a pipe that carries it to an underground well. The density of stormwater is lower than that of the water already present in the aquifer, it stays above. Additionally, the salinity of land above is reduced and the salt is carried below and sinks, leaving fresh water available for use during cropping months. Bhungroo works for one-tenth the cost of borewell recharge technology. It is typically owned and managed by women.
The technology involved:
- The lowest point of the catchment area is identified after a hydrological survey of the area.
- A pipe with a diameter of 5 inches is drilled into the ground up to the aquifer or water table.
- Rain water usually flows towards the lowest point and goes into the ground.
Disadvantages
- Rainwater storage tanks can take up valuable space and money around your house.
- Requires technical skills to install the system.
- Inability to install an efficient and effective system.
- After installation, rainwater harvesting systems need care and upkeep, which may not be feasible for all homeowners.
- Systems May Attract Mosquitoes Aand Other Waterborne diseases and also contaminate the water, It will become difficult for homemakers.
It is impossible to assume that your rainwater harvesting system would supply a reliable source of water because rain events are considered to be “acts of God” by definition. Even though you might not be able to rely on rainwater collection in the long run.
