WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTING

CONSERVATION MEASURES

PROJECT REPORT

Submitted to the Madras Christian College in partial fulfilment of the Requirement for
the Course titled Environmental Studies (Semester – III)

By
1. Darshana Priyaa.S- 2301711021004
2. Mary Carlin. N - 2301711021011
3. Karthikeyan -2301711020036
4. Harish Kumar Singh- 2301711020028
5. M.Y.Robinson Yannis -2301711021024

Under the Guidance and Supervision of

Ms.Parameswari. A
Assistant Professor
Department of History

MADRAS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE (AUTONOMOUS)

TAMBARAM EAST, CHENNAI-600059

DEPARTMENT OF HISTORY (AIDED)

OCTOBER 2024
INTRODUCTION

There are five elements that are very essential for a life to exist on this earth-air, water, land,
heat, and biosphere. Among these water is one of the most important element. Water is a scarce resource
that is fundamental to life, livelihood, food security and sustainable development. India has more than 18
% of the world's population, but has only 4% of world's renewable water resources and 2.4% of world's
land area. There are further limits on utilizable quantities of water owing to uneven distribution over time
and space. In addition, there are challenges of frequent floods and droughts in one or the other part of the
country. With a growing population and rising needs of a fast-developing nation as well as the given
indications of the impact of climate change, availability of utilizable water will be under further strain in
future with the possibility of deepening water conflicts among different user groups. Low consciousness
about the scarcity of water and its life sustaining and economic value results in its mismanagement,
wastage, and inefficient use, as also pollution and reduction of flows below minimum ecological needs. In
addition, there are inequities in distribution and lack of a unified perspective in planning, management
and use of water resources.

One of the biggest concerns for our water-based resources in the future is the sustainability of the
current and even future water resource allocation. As water becomes scarcer, the importance of how it is
managed grows vastly. Finding a balance between what is needed by humans and what is needed in the
environment is an important step in the sustainability of water resources. Attempts to create sustainable
freshwater Systems have been seen on a national level in countries such as Australia and South Africa,
and such commitment to the environment could set a model for the rest of the world. Water management
is the activity of planning, developing, distributing and optimum use of water resources under defined
water polices and regulations. It includes: (l) management of water treatment of drinking water,
industrial water, mine water, sewage or waste water; (2) management of water resources; (3)
management of irrigation; (4) management of the water table and underground water. In an ideal world,
water management planning has regard, to all the competing demands for water and seeks to allocate
water on an equitable basis to satisfy all uses and-demands. The field of water resources management
will have to continue to adapt to the current and future issues facing the allocation of water. With the
growing uncertainties of global climate change and the long term impacts of management actions, the
decision-making will be even more difficult. It is likely that ongoing climate change will lead to

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situations that have not been encountered. As a result new management strategies will have to be
implemented in order to avoid setbacks in the allocation of water resources. Successful management of
any resources requires accurate knowledge of the resource available, the competing demands for the
resource, measures to and processes to evaluate the significance and worth of competing demands and
mechanisms to translate policy decisions into actions on the ground.

The primary objective of water management is to save the main resources of water supply. Water
management relates with and also with sewage management and wetland restoration, recycling of water,
optimum utilization and conservation of water. Good water management should be an absolute priority for
every generation, and for every government throughout the world. This report covers about the survey
taken to address the water management in the college campus of Madras Christian College. It also
addresses students opinion on the water management done in the campus and also their suggestions in
improving the water management and conservation.

PROBLEM STATEMENT:

Large parts of India have already become water stressed. Rapid growth in demand for water due to
population growth, urbanization and changing lifestyle pose serious challenges to water security. Issues
related to water management have not been addressed adequately. Mismanagement of water resources
has led to a critical situation in many parts of the country. Climate change may also increase the sea
levels. This may lead to salinity intrusion in ground water aquifers and increased coastal inundation in
coastal regions, adversely impacting habitations, agriculture and industry in such regions. Access to safe
water for drinking and other domestic needs still continues to be a problem in many areas. Skewed
availability of water between different regions and different people in the same region and also the
intermittent and unreliable water supply system has the potential of causing social unrest.

Water security in India faces several issues and challenges that threaten the sustainability and
development of the country. These include over-extraction of groundwater, water pollution, inadequate
distribution, lack of proper water management, climate change, and conflicts over water. There is
unequal distribution of water resources across the country, with some regions facing severe water
scarcity while others have surplus water. India lacks proper water management systems, with inefficient

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irrigation systems, leaky water supply networks, and insufficient wastewater treatment facilities. Climate
change has resulted in irregular monsoon patterns and increased frequency of natural disasters, causing
further strain on India's water resources. With increasing water scarcity, there are growing conflicts
between different states, communities, and sectors over the distribution and use of water. Addressing
these challenges is crucial for ensuring water security in India and sustainable development of the
country.

Groundwater though part of hydrological cycle and a community resource, is still perceived as an
individual property and is exploited inequitably and without any consideration to its sustainability
leading to its over-exploitation in several areas. Inter- regional, inter-State, intra-State, as also inter-
sectoral disputes in sharing of water, strain relationships and hamper the optimal utilization of water
through scientific planning on basin/sub-basin basis. Natural water bodies and drainage channels are
being encroached upon, and diverted for other purposes. Groundwater recharge zones are often blocked.
Growing pollution of water sources, especially through industrial effluents, is affecting the availability of
safe water besides causing environmental and health hazards. In many parts of the country, large
stretches of rivers are both heavily polluted and devoid of flows to support aquatic ecology, cultural
needs and aesthetics. These are the major problems faced today due to inadequate water management.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The efficient management of water resources is paramount to sustainable living, both on an

individual and community level. By understanding the ways in which water is utilized and conserved
within the Madras Christian College campus, we can gain valuable insights into effective water
management practices. This report delves into the college's current water management strategies, as well
as the perspectives and suggestions of its students regarding water conservation. Through a
comprehensive survey, we aim to assess student awareness of available water resources, their
understanding of water conservation methods, and their opinions on the college's water management
initiatives. Additionally, the report will explore the college's daily water consumption patterns, its
efforts to monitor water usage, wastage, and pollution, and the existing water management policies in
place. Ultimately, the goal of this study is to identify innovative approaches to water conservation that

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can be implemented on the campus and potentially serve as a model for broader communities. Other
objectives were evaluate the condition of the college's water supply and distribution infrastructure,
identifying potential areas for improvement, explore ways to increase student engagement in water
conservation initiatives, such as through educational programs, competitions, or volunteer
opportunities and discuss the college's overall sustainability goals and how water conservation
aligns with these objectives. The objectives of water supply and management also encompass ensuring
sustainable access to quality water, promoting conservation, and addressing environmental impacts.
These goals are critical for supporting educational activities and maintaining campus health. Effective
management strategies are essential to balance supply and demand, especially in the face of increasing
water scarcity. Ensuring the microbiological and chemical quality of drinking water is paramount,
necessitating robust treatment and monitoring systems. Institutions must adhere to legal and
environmental standards to protect both human health and local ecosystems. Implementing advanced
technologies and practices can enhance water efficiency and reduce costs.

The survey revealed that a significant number of students are aware of the importance of water
conservation and are concerned about the excessive wastage of water on campus. They expressed a
desire to contribute to sustainable practices and indicated a willingness to modify their personal habits to
reduce water consumption. Moreover, the students demonstrated a good understanding of the limited
availability of water resources and the need for responsible usage.

RESERCH METHODOLOGY

This research article discusses about the water management in the steps that can be taken
conserve water resource inside the college campus. Three methods of research were undertaken to
achieve the objective of this research. The First method used is the interview. An interview is a
qualitative research method that relies on asking questions in order to collect data. Interviews
involve two or more people, one of whom is the interviewer asking the questions. Our group members
interviewed a worker who is in charge of the water supply to all the areas of the college. The interview
that we conducted was a semi- structured interview. A structured interview is when the interview is done
using a predetermined set of questions and questions that arise on the spot. The reason for choosing an

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interview method of research is that it is time efficient, it has high validity and reliability, and also even the
illiterate people can answer that questions. We had a set of questions to know about the primary sources
of water inside the college, average consumption of water, water resource monitoring methods, the
protocols done by the college before disposal of sewage or polluted water, rain water harvesting system
in the college , and the steps taken by the college to conserve water.

Before the interview we had done prior research about the water management systems in the
college. The interview taken by our group was very much useful to know about the water system of the
college. The worker spent his free time in answering the questions. He was very much ready to help us.
He was a great help in taking picture of the lake and drinking water wells since those places were
restricted to the students. The answers that we got from him were helpful in knowing about the initiatives
and policies of the college in conservation of water resources. The next method of research adopted by
our group was questionnaire method. A questionnaire is list of questions or items used to gather data from
respondents about their attitudes, experiences, or opinions. Questionnaire is helpful to take survey to a
group of people at the same time. It is very time efficient. We have created a questionnaire in the form of
good form which has been circulated through WhatsApp Messenger to the students of the college
especially to those who are in the resident halls. This method was chosen so that a large number of
students can be asked about their opinion at the same time. The questions that were asked to the students
were mostly about their awareness about the water resources and water wastage in the College campus. It
also questioned about their social responsibility to conserve water. We have asked about their ideas and
ways in which they think water can be conserved. We have asked if they have noticed any water leakage
and areas where they think water is being wasted. We have also asked if they think more awareness
programs and activities would increase the importance of water conservation and management among the
students. Around 30 students have answered our questionnaire enthusiastically, most of them residing in
halls. There was not any particular method of sampling of subjects. The subjects were of random selection.

The main objective of creating a questionnaire to do the survey among the students was to know
their opinion and ideas related to water management which was achieved. Majority of the students gave
honest answers which was very helpful in completing the survey. From the responds we able know that
many students were interested in conserving water and were ready to attend the awareness programs and
water conservation activities. The innovative ideas given by the students can be used in the present as well

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as in the future to conserve the water resource. It shows that the students were aware of the resource they
use and the water that is wasted.

Third method used is reference of literature related to water management and conservation.
We have referred to three books that has given us insights on the importance of water conservation and
management. The books have also talked about the different methods in which resources can be used
substantially.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE:

The first book that we referred to is the book named as Water Conservation and Management
edited by Cole Gray. This book was published by Larsen and Keller Education. This book talks about
how water that is an abundant resource but freshwater is scarce.There is a necessity to conserve it for
this and upcoming generations. It says that water conservation refers to the optimum utilization of water
and crafting policies, laws, regulations and rules to insure its proper use. Water management is required
to meet the demand and prevent disasters like droughts. The book aims to shed light on some of the
unexplored aspects of water conservation. It is compiled in such a manner, that it will provide in-depth
knowledge about the theory and practice of this field. The topics covered in it offer the readers new
insights about this subject. This textbook aims to serve as a resource guide for students and experts alike
and contribute to the growth of the discipline.

The next book is that Water Resources, Conservation and Management written by
S.N.Chatterjee. He was the former head of the department of social studies and rural development
, Visva Bharathi, Sriniketan. This book of his was published by Atlantic Publishers and Distributors. This
book mainly focuses on Water resources in Indian. The author gives data saying that India ranks high
among the nations of the world in terms of potential water resources, But poor management,
indiscriminate use and unsustainable human activities and practices have created acute water shortage in
most parts of the country. Owing to the country’s large population and a high growth rate thereof the
pressure on water resources is increasing . He says that in order to solve the water problems, conservation
and recycling of water should be made mandatory for all domestic and industrial projects. Other
appropriate conservation measures should be taken up to create awareness among the people so that
their mindset, attitudes and habits change proactively and they adopt sustainable practices rather than

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wait for legislation and regulations. The book gives an up-to-date, systematic and scientific analysis of
water problems and suggests measures to overcome these problems through effective water
management.

The third book that was referred to was a book titled Clean Water and Sanitation. This book
publication is an initiative of the Deanery of Research and Development at Madras Christian College,
demonstrating the college’s commitment to fostering academic scholarship and in advancing the
Sustainable Development Goals. The book gives an overall insight on water quality standards, water
governance management and consequences of water pollutants. Water portability monitoring strategies
and remediation techniques were illustrated to overcome the challenges faced in water management
system and provide sustainable approach for positive change.

We have also referred to two newspaper articles . First one being the article that was published in
Times of India on September 16, 2024. It features the introduction of smart duck that was installed in
Madras Christian college to track the water quality of the lake. This remote controlled duck will move
across the lake and gather data on water temperature, dissolved oxygen and turbidity and pH. The second
article that was published in the Print on July 27, 2024. This article features MCC lake rededication done
by Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd. The event marked a significant milestone in the lake’s rejuvenation,
enhancing its water-holding capacity of approximately 20 million liters, supported by Mega
Foundations and the Scrub Society. The articles have helped us to know the initiatives and activities
done by the college to manage the water resource.

WORK CARRIED OUT

Our comprehensive research into the water management practices at Madras Christian College
involved a combination of online surveys and in-person interviews with students and staff. Prior to
conducting these interviews, our team conducted preliminary research to identify the college's water
supply sources, storage facilities, and any existing water conservation initiatives. We gathered
information from newspaper articles and the college website, which provided details about the available
water technologies on campus. Additionally, interviews with the college's water supply worker offered

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valuable insights into the water distribution system and its operations. This multifaceted approach
allowed us to gain a thorough understanding of the college's current water management practices and to
identify areas where improvements could be made.

Our investigation into the campus' water infrastructure revealed a system reliant on two primary
overhead tanks: the Zoology Tank and the Botany Tank. These tanks, each with a capacity of 25
kiloliters, supply water to various buildings and facilities on the campus. The Zoology Tank serves
Heber Hall, Selaiyur Hall, and the professors' residences, while the Botany Tank supplies Barnes Hall,
Martin Hall, Margret Hall, and St. Thomas Hall. The water levels in these tanks are monitored by a
ball and stick indicator sys tem.

In addition to the overhead tanks, there are four drinking water wells that supply water to all the
water taps on campus. Two separate wells provide water to the restrooms and cafeteria. The primary
source of underground water is the MCC lake, which has a capacity of approximately 20 million liters.
This lake has recently undergone rejuvenation efforts. To ensure the availability of high-quality drinking
water, the campus has nine Reverse Osmosis (RO) water dispensers. These RO plants are regularly
cleaned and maintained. However, the campus faces water pollution challenges primarily due to
chemical laboratory discharges and littering. Littering can contribute to waterlogging during the rainy
season. While chemical laboratory discharges are treated before being released, there is currently no
specific program in place to monitor and control water pollution.

To provide valuable insights into the water quality and identify potential pollution sources, the
college has introduced a remote-controlled duck that will collect data on water temperature, dissolved
oxygen, turbidity, and pH levels in the lake. Chennai, is vulnerable to flooding during the rainy season.
The city's extensive tree cover, while beneficial for environmental reasons, can also contribute to
flooding by hindering water drainage. The Madras Christian College (MCC) campus, located within
Chennai, is a prime example of this vulnerability .To address the challenges posed by flooding and water
scarcity, the college has implemented a comprehensive water management strategy. One key component
of this strategy is the installation of a rainwater harvesting system. This system captures rainwater from
the campus' rooftops and directs it into storage tanks for later use. The collected rainwater can be used
for various purposes, such as irrigation, gardening, and flushing toilets, thereby reducing the reliance

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 on municipal water supply.

To ensure the efficient and effective use of water, the college conducts annual water audits. These
audits involve a thorough assessment of the campus' water consumption patterns, identifying any leaks,
inefficiencies, or areas for improvement. By regularly monitoring water usage, the college can take
proactive steps to conserve water and reduce costs. In addition to rainwater harvesting and water audits,
the college has also prioritized water quality. To provide students with clean and safe drinking water,
the college has established two water treatment plants. These plants utilize reverse osmosis technology
to purify water from various sources, including wastewater from washrooms. By treating wastewater,
the college can reduce its overall water consumption and ensure a reliable supply of potable water.
Furthermore, the college has implemented various initiatives to raise awareness about water
conservation among students and staff. These initiatives may include educational programs, workshops,
and campaigns that highlight the importance of conserving water, reducing waste, and adopting
sustainable practices. By fostering a culture of water conservation, the college can contribute to the
long-term sustainability of its water resources.

The second method of research was questionnaire method which was asked to the students to
know their perspectives and opinions about the ways in which water can be conserved. A set of
questions were asked to a group of 30 students.

The above shown pie chart shows that majority that is 97% of the students think it is very important to
conserve water and use water efficiently without wasting the incredible resource.

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 Despite a high awareness of water conservation among students, only half of them consistently practice
water-saving habits in their daily lives. Simple actions like turning off the tap while brushing, checking
for leaks regularly, and taking shorter showers can significantly reduce water consumption.

Despite MCC's efforts to conserve water, there are still several faulty fixtures on campus. Students have
reported water leaks in restrooms, drinking water machines, the canteen, and various halls.

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Students believe that the college can further promote water conservation by organizing awareness
programs and seminars on sustainable water use. Over 90% of students feel that these initiatives would be
beneficial. Additionally, interactive workshops could provide a more engaging and effective way to
educate students about water conservation.

Awareness campaigns and workshops of water management will increase the knowledge and
interest among the students to conserve water and be aware of any water wastage in and around their
surroundings. 97% of the students agree that campaigns would enlighten the students about water
management.

Students suggested several additional measures to conserve water on campus. These measures
included:

 Installing automatic tap systems: This would reduce water waste caused by forgetting to
turn off taps.
 Implementing hydraulic systems in pipes: These systems can help optimize water flow and
reduce leaks.
 Installing aerators and water-efficient plumbing fixtures: These fixtures can reduce water flow
without compromising functionality.

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SOLUTION

The survey conducted by our group has given a few solutions that can be inferred as useful
methods to solve the major issue present in today’s world that is of managing and conserving water
resource. Institutions play a significant role in promoting water conservation and sustainable water
management practices. Here are some effective techniques that can be implemented

Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable practice that involves collecting and storing rainwater for
various uses, such as irrigation, flushing toilets, and cleaning. This technique can help conserve water
resources, reduce water bills, and minimize the impact of stormwater runoff on the environment. By
using rainwater for non-potable purposes, you can significantly reduce your water consumption and
associated costs. Rainwater harvesting helps conserve freshwater resources and reduces stormwater
runoff, which can help prevent erosion and pollution. Rainwater is often considered to be of higher
quality than tap water for plants, as it contains natural nutrients and minerals. Rainwater harvesting is a
sustainable practice that can help reduce your reliance on municipal water supplies.

Conduct periodic water audits to identify water leaks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
Analyze audit data to pinpoint problem areas and implement targeted solutions. Regularly inspect
plumbing systems for leaks and promptly repair any issues.Utilize advanced leak detection technologies
to identify hidden leaks. Replace outdated fixtures with water-efficient models like low-flow toilets,
faucets, and showerheads. Encourage students and staff to use these fixtures responsibly.

Conduct awareness campaigns to educate students, staff, and the community about water
conservation. Organize workshops and seminars to provide practical tips and information on water
conservation .Installation of smart water meters to monitor water consumption and identify anomalies.
Smart water meters are advanced devices that can revolutionize how we monitor and manage water
consumption. By replacing traditional analog meters with these digital devices, we can gain valuable
insights into our water usage patterns and identify anomalies that may indicate leaks or inefficient
practices.Smart meters provide real-time data on water consumption, allowing users to track their usage
and identify unusual spikes or drops. By analyzing water consumption patterns, smart meters can detect
even small leaks that might go unnoticed with traditional meters. This can help prevent water waste and

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costly repairs. Smart meters can identify anomalies in water consumption, such as unusually high usage
during off-peak hours or unexpected drops in flow rate. These anomalies can be investigated to
determine the cause and take corrective action. By providing users with detailed information about their
water usage, smart meters can encourage water conservation. Users can make informed decisions about
their water consumption habits and take steps to reduce waste.

One of the simple strategies to improve both water supply management and water quality is the
protection of watersheds through maintenance of naturally vegetated buffer strips along streams, river
channels and around lakes. watershed management must be considered as a process of participatory
planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating a course of action involving natural, human and other
resources. A holistic soil conservation and watershed management approach should consider those
physical, socio- economic and institutional linkages that exist between upstream and downstream of a
river basin or watershed. Installing an effluent treatment plant is the first step to control industrial
pollution. By implementing these strategies, colleges can significantly reduce their water consumption,
conserve valuable resources, and set a positive example for the community.

CONCLUSION

Although the earth is rich in water, only one percent is liquid fresh water, the form we require for
our highest priority needs. The demands on this liquid fresh water are growing, and many scientists feel
that a future shortage of fresh water will be eminent. Water conservation and management emphasizes
water quality protection, a growing area of employment and environmental concern. Water conservation
and management encompasses the policies, strategies and activities made to manage water as a
sustainable resource, to protect the water environment, and to meet current and future human demand.
Population, household size, and growth and affluence all affect how much water is used.

Better water conservation and management has economic benefits and helps protect the
environment. The more water you use, the more you pay for water and sewer service on a municipal
water and sewer system. Excessive water use can overload both individual septic systems and municipal
sewer systems, thereby resulting in untreated sewage contamination of fresh water supplies. Water

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conservation can extend the useful life of both community and individual household sewer systems.
Excessive withdrawals of ground water can lead to salt water intrusion, a subtle environmental impact
with long-lasting effects. Agriculture is our most essential industry, but it is also our largest consumer of
fresh water. Water conservation and management will become bigger issues for agriculture and
metropolitan areas as they compete for limited fresh water resources in the future. Good water
management should be an absolute priority for every generation, and for every government throughout
the world. More should be done to ensure that everyone has daily access to safe, clean water .

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REFERENCE

BOOKS

1. Gray , Cole. “Water Conservation and Management.” Larsen and Keller Education , 2017.
2. S.N.Chatterjee . “Water Resources, Conservation and Management .” Atlantic Publishers and
Distributors ,2008.
3. Deanery of Research and Development at Madras Christian College. “Clean Water and
Sanitation”
4. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/water-treatment-plants-set-up-on-madras-
christian-college-campus/articleshow/24674714.cms
5. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/mcc-launches-innovative-smart-duck-to-monitor-
lake-water-quality/articleshow/113373536.cms
6. https://theprint.in/ani-press-releases/bisleri-international-restores-and-rededicates-lake-at-madras-
christian-college-boosting-its-water-harvesting-capacity-to-20- million-
liters/2194062/https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S095937801200115X
7. https://www.twdb.texas.gov/publications/state_water_plan/2012/07.pdf
8. https://econaur.com/water-conservation-methods-using-products-that-reduce- water-use-in-
buildings/?srsltid=AfmBOoou5QhZiVzBDchIWHZkoBRlJMd8m_kcqF- XtLoVXlpi7IEQbTqw
PLATES:

Source: The Hindu

Source: The Hindu