1

AN ACADEMIC INTERNSHIP REPORT ON

RAIN WATER HARVESTING

Submitted in Partial fulfilment of the Requirements

Of 5th Semester
academic Internship
in
Mechanical
Engineering .

SUBMITTED BY:
Raktim Baishya 230910002042
Dhrubajyoti Haloi 230910002017
Kunal Medhi 230910002028
Mridupaban Kashyap 230910002031

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING,

BINESWAR BRAHMA ENGINEERING COLLEGE ,KOKRAJHAR .

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DECLARATION

We hereby declare that the internship report entitled “Rainwater Harvesting” submitted by
me in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Bachelor of
Technology in Mechanical Engineering, 5th Semester, is a record of original work carried out
by me during my academic internship. This report has not been submitted earlier, either in
part or full, for any other degree or diploma.

We further declare that all sources of information used in this report have been duly
acknowledged.

Raktim Baishya 230910002042

Dhrubajyoti Haloi 230910002017
Kunal Medhi 230910002028
Mridupaban Kashyap 230910002031

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We would like to express my sincere gratitude to my internship supervisor Prof. Dr Dhrijit kr

Deka Department of Mechanical Engineering, for their continuous guidance,
encouragement, and constructive suggestions throughout the internship period.

We are thankful to the Head of Department , Mr Anjan Kr Kakati for providing us with the
opportunity to undertake this internship and for facilitating the necessary resources to
complete my work.

We would also like to acknowledge the cooperation of my fellow students and staff
members, who extended their valuable support during this project. Finally, we express our
deepest gratitude to my family for their constant encouragement and moral support.

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ABSRACT
Water scarcity is one of the most critical challenges of the 21st century. With rapid
urbanization, climate change, and increasing population, the demand for water has been
rising while freshwater resources continue to deplete. Rainwater harvesting has emerged as
a sustainable solution to mitigate water crises by collecting and storing rainwater for future
use.

This internship project focuses on understanding the design, components, and applications
of rainwater harvesting systems. It emphasizes their role in groundwater recharge, domestic
usage, industrial processes, and agricultural irrigation. The report highlights both traditional
practices and modern innovations, supported by case studies and implementation
strategies.

The study concludes that rainwater harvesting is not only a cost-effective technique but also
an environmentally sustainable method that can play a vital role in ensuring long-term water
security.

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1 – Introduction
Chapter 2 – Literature Review
Chapter 3 – Methodology
Chapter 4 – Observations & Analysis
Chapter 5 – Implementation of Rainwater Harvesting Systems
Chapter 6 – Results & Findings
Chapter 7 – Impact Assessment and Discussion
Chapter 8 – References & Annexures
Chapter 9 – Final Reflection & Future Scope
Chapter 10- Photos
Chapter 11 – Summary and Overall Conclusion

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
Water is the foundation of life on Earth and a crucial input for domestic, industrial, and
agricultural purposes. With the increase in human population and rapid urbanization, water
scarcity has emerged as one of the world’s most pressing problems. According to the United
Nations (2023 report), nearly 40% of the global population faces water shortages, and by
2050, this figure may rise to 60% if effective solutions are not implemented.
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has been recognized as one of the most sustainable solutions to
address this challenge. It is a simple and cost-effective technique that collects and stores
rainwater from rooftops, land surfaces, and other catchment areas for later use. Unlike
groundwater extraction, which depletes aquifers, rainwater harvesting works in harmony
with nature by conserving, recharging, and utilizing water resources.

1.2 Problem Statement

Urban areas: Cities experience frequent water shortages due to high demand and limited
supply. Simultaneously, urban flooding during heavy rains causes damage to property and
infrastructure.
Rural areas: Villages dependent on monsoon rainfall often face drought during non-
monsoon months.
Environmental impact: Over-extraction of groundwater leads to falling water tables, land
subsidence, and ecosystem imbalance.
Rainwater harvesting directly addresses these challenges by converting rainwater into a
usable and reliable resource.

1.3 IMPORTANCE OF RAINWATER HARVESTING

India receives an annual average rainfall of 1,170 mm, but most of this occurs within just 3–4
months of the monsoon. Due to lack of storage and poor water management, nearly 70% of
rainwater is lost as surface runoff.
Key facts:

• India ranks 13th among the world’s most water-stressed countries (World Resources
Institute, 2022).
• Several metro cities, including Chennai, Bangalore, and Delhi, have reported severe
water shortages in recent years.

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• States like Tamil Nadu have already made rooftop harvesting mandatory for new
buildings, setting a model for others.

1.4 Role of Mechanical Engineering in Rainwater Harvesting

Though rainwater harvesting is often studied under environmental engineering, mechanical
engineers play an important role in:

• Designing efficient collection systems with proper slopes, gutters, and piping.
• Developing low-cost filtration units such as sand and charcoal filters.
• Optimizing the storage tanks for strength, material efficiency, and cost.
• Introducing automation for monitoring water levels, pumps, and filtration.
• Integrating sustainable materials and eco-friendly construction techniques.
Thus, rainwater harvesting provides a field where mechanical engineering directly
contributes to solving environmental and societal challenges.

1.5 Historical Background

Rainwater harvesting is not a new concept. Civilizations across the world have been
practicing it for thousands of years:

• Indus Valley Civilization (3000 BCE) – Developed reservoirs and stepwells to store
rainwater.

• Rajasthan Stepwells (India) – Large stepwells like Chand Baori collected monsoon
rains for year-round use.

• Tamil Nadu Temple Tanks – Traditional temple complexes had huge water tanks for
community use.

• Roman Empire – Built aqueducts and cisterns to collect rainwater for public baths
and fountains.

• China (Han Dynasty) – Used stone and ceramic cisterns for rainwater collection.

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1.6 Objectives of Studying Rainwater Harvesting

The introduction of rainwater harvesting into academic and practical fields has three major
objectives:
Conservation of water resources – Reduce dependence on rivers and groundwater.

Sustainable development – Provide a low-cost, eco-friendly solution for future generations.

Awareness and innovation – Encourage engineers and citizens to adopt water-smart

practices.

1.7 Significance of the Study

This internship report aims to provide detailed knowledge of rainwater harvesting systems
and their relevance in addressing modern water problems. Its significance lies in:

• Offering a practical learning opportunity for engineering students.

• Creating a blueprint for small-scale and large-scale adoption.
• Highlighting technological improvements that can make systems more effective.

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CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1Introduction
The literature review provides an overview of the research, case studies, and existing
technologies related to rainwater harvesting (RWH). Reviewing previous work helps us
understand:

• How ancient societies implemented RWH successfully.

• The different models and techniques used globally and in India.
• Research gaps and areas where modern technology can enhance efficiency.

This chapter synthesizes information from historical accounts, research papers, government
reports, and real-life projects.

2.2 Historical Development of Rainwater Harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is deeply rooted in human civilization. Ancient systems were not only
practical but also ingeniously designed.
India:
Stepwells (Baolis) in Gujarat and Rajasthan were masterpieces of water storage and
architectural beauty.
Johads (small earthen check dams) in Haryana and Rajasthan helped recharge groundwater.
Temple tanks in South India collected rainwater for religious as well as domestic use.
China:
As early as 2000 years ago, ceramic jars and stone tanks were used to collect household
rainwater.
Roman Empire:
Constructed large cisterns beneath houses and public buildings.
Aqueducts transported water from rainfall catchments to towns.
Middle East:
Qanats (underground channels) captured and transported rainwater for irrigation in desert
areas.

2.3 Evolution of Rainwater Harvesting in Modern Times

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Modern RWH has transitioned from traditional techniques to scientifically designed systems.
Urban Rooftop Harvesting: Widely implemented in cities for residential and commercial
buildings.
Percolation Pits: Used to recharge groundwater in areas facing rapid depletion.
Check Dams & Percolation Tanks: Adopted in semi-arid rural areas.

Smart Tanks: Equipped with sensors to monitor water levels, filtration quality, and pump
usage.

2.4 Global Practices of Rainwater Harvesting

Australia
Nearly 30% of homes have rainwater tanks.
Government subsidies encourage RWH adoption in drought-prone regions.
Germany
RWH systems are integrated with stormwater management.
Rainwater is used for toilet flushing, irrigation, and groundwater recharge.
Japan
Tokyo has implemented large underground tanks beneath parks and stadiums.
Mandates rooftop harvesting in certain public buildings.
Kenya & Africa
Household-level tanks are crucial for areas without piped supply.
NGOs promote low-cost ferrocement tanks.
India
Tamil Nadu made RWH mandatory in 2001 for all buildings.
Delhi and Bangalore implemented RWH policies for industries and institutions.

2.5 Research Studies on Rainwater Harvesting

CSE (Centre for Science and Environment, India, 2018):
Found that RWH can reduce urban water demand by 25–30% in Indian cities.
UNESCO (2021 report):

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Rainwater harvesting is among the top 10 recommended strategies for achieving SDG-6:
Clean Water and Sanitation.
IIT Delhi Research (2019):

Designed low-cost filters using locally available sand and charcoal, reducing bacterial
contamination by 90%.

Case Study – Chennai (2019 Water Crisis):

Widespread adoption of rooftop harvesting reduced dependency on tanker water by 30–
40%.

2.6 Key Learnings from Literature

• Traditional knowledge remains relevant and sustainable.
• Urban RWH systems need to integrate technology for efficiency.
• Policy support (like Tamil Nadu’s model) ensures large-scale adoption.
• Community involvement is essential for long-term success.
• Research gaps exist in cost reduction, filter efficiency, and large-scale urban design.

2.7 Summary
This literature review shows that while rainwater harvesting is an ancient practice, it has
evolved into a modern necessity. The lessons from history, combined with innovations in
engineering and technology, make RWH one of the most reliable solutions for addressing
global water scarcity.

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"CHAPTER 3: INTERNSHIP WORK / METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction
The internship was carried out at [Name of Institution/Organization], which has been
actively engaged in sustainable water management and renewable resource projects. The
primary objective of this internship was to gain practical exposure to the concepts, design,
and implementation of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) systems.
As a mechanical engineering intern, the focus was on understanding:

• The mechanical design of rainwater collection and storage systems.

• The structural and hydraulic components used in rainwater harvesting.
• Methods of filter design, pipe selection, and tank fabrication.
• Maintenance and sustainability of RWH systems.

3.2 Objectives of the Internship

The key objectives defined at the beginning of the internship were:

• To study the existing water supply and demand patterns in the campus/building
where the project was executed.
• To conduct a site survey and identify potential catchment areas for rainwater
collection.
• To learn the design methodology of rainwater harvesting systems.
• To calculate water harvesting potential based on rainfall data and catchment area.
• To understand filtration techniques for removing impurities from rainwater.
• To study the storage structures (underground tanks, sumps, rooftop tanks).
• To develop maintenance guidelines for long-term functioning.

3.3 Site Selection and Survey

The internship began with a survey of the site, which was [e.g., a college campus, office
building, or residential society].

Catchment Area Identified:

The main building rooftop was chosen as the primary rainwater catchment surface, with a
total area of approximately [X sq. meters].

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Rainfall Data Collected:

Average annual rainfall of the region (from IMD – Indian Meteorological Department) was
studied. For example, Assam receives ~2000–2500 mm annually, while Delhi receives ~700–
800 mm annually.

Topographical Considerations:
Slopes of roofs, drainage direction, and natural gradient were studied to design pipe layouts.

3.4 Components of the Rainwater Harvesting System

The RWH system studied during the internship consisted of the following major
components:

• Catchment Surface
• Rooftop surface with slope to guide rainwater into gutters.
• Importance of smooth, non-toxic materials (avoid asbestos roofing).
• Conveyance System (Pipes and Gutters)
• PVC pipes were used to transport rainwater from roof to filter.
• Gutters provided with mesh screens to prevent large debris.
• First Flush System
• A simple mechanical valve to divert the first 5–10 minutes of rain (which contains
dust, bird droppings, and contaminants).
• Filtration Unit
• Multi-layer sand, gravel, and charcoal filter designed.
• Removes turbidity, color, and microorganisms.
• Storage Tank / Recharge Structure

Two options studied:

Storage Tank (for direct domestic use).
Recharge Pit (for replenishing groundwater).

3.5 Design Methodology

The design procedure followed was:

• Identify Catchment: Roof area measured.

• Estimate Rainfall: Regional data collected.

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• Calculate Runoff: Using coefficient values.

• Design Pipes: Diameter calculated based on rainfall intensity (e.g., 75 mm to 100 mm
PVC pipes).
• Design Filter: Gravel bed of 60 cm

"3.6 Internship Activities Performed

During the internship, the following tasks were carried out step by step:

• Data Collection: Rainfall and consumption statistics.

• Field Work: Measuring rooftop area and identifying water outlets.
• Design Work: Drawing schematics of the RWH system.
• Prototype Development: Making a small-scale filter model.
• Testing: Checking water clarity and bacterial reduction after filtration.
• Documentation: Preparing drawings, notes, and calculations."

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"CHAPTER 4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1 Introduction
The internship on Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) yielded significant results in terms of
practical understanding, field-based calculations, prototype development, and awareness of
sustainable water management practices. This chapter discusses the findings in detail and
provides an interpretation of their implications in the real-world scenario.

4.2 Water Harvesting Potential

One of the key outcomes of the project was the estimation of the water that could be
harvested from the available rooftop surface. Considering a medium-sized institutional
building with a roof area of about 500 square meters and the average annual rainfall of the
region being around 2000 millimeters, the calculation indicated that nearly eight lakh liters
of water could be harvested every year. This figure alone demonstrates the immense
potential of utilizing rainfall that is otherwise wasted as surface runoff. Even when smaller
rooftops were considered, the potential remained encouraging. For example, a 250 square
meter roof could still yield around four lakh liters per year, which is enough to fulfill a
substantial portion of daily non-drinking water requirements. This analysis strongly
emphasizes that rainwater harvesting is not limited to large buildings, but is equally
beneficial at smaller scales, including residential houses.

4.3 Prototype Filtration Results

Another significant component of the internship work was the design and testing of a simple
three-layer filtration unit using gravel, sand, and charcoal. When unfiltered rainwater was
passed through the system, visible improvements in clarity and odor were observed. The
filtered water was clear, much less turbid, and free from suspended particles such as dust,
leaves, and organic matter. This practical demonstration highlighted how low-cost and easily
available materials can significantly enhance the quality of harvested water. However, it was
also noted that while the system is excellent for household purposes such as washing,
gardening, and toilet flushing, additional purification methods such as UV treatment or
chlorination would be needed if the water is to be used for direct drinking purposes.

4.4 Practical Observations

During the process, several practical aspects came into focus. The first was the importance
of a first-flush system that diverts the initial dirty rainwater away from the storage tank. This
simple mechanism ensures that the majority of contaminants such as dust, bird droppings,
and organic litter do not enter the storage unit. The second observation was that the slope
and diameter of the connecting pipes play a crucial role in preventing overflow during heavy
rainfall. Improper design can lead to water wastage and even structural leakage. Regular

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cleaning and inspection of the filters, pipes, and tank also emerged as a necessity for
maintaining the efficiency of the system.

Another notable aspect was the cost-benefit analysis of the system. The installation of a
medium-sized underground storage tank, with a capacity of 50,000 liters, was found to be
economically feasible when compared to the long-term savings on water bills and reduced
dependency on external supply. The system requires only periodic maintenance, which is
affordable for both residential and institutional setups.

4.5 Sustainability and Wider Impact

From a sustainability perspective, the outcomes of the internship strongly reinforced the
role of rainwater harvesting in water conservation. The practice can significantly reduce the
extraction of groundwater, which is already under severe stress in many regions. By adopting
RWH, institutions and households can lower their dependency on municipal water supply,
especially during peak demand seasons. The environmental benefit is equally important, as
it promotes groundwater recharge, prevents flooding due to uncontrolled runoff, and
creates a greener ecosystem.

4.6 Summary of Findings

The internship clearly showed that rainwater harvesting is not just a theoretical concept but
a highly practical and implementable solution. The results demonstrated that:

• Substantial amounts of water can be harvested even from small rooftop areas.
• Simple filtration units can significantly improve water quality.
• Proper design of pipes, slopes, and first-flush devices is essential.
• The system is cost-effective, environmentally sustainable, and socially beneficial.

In conclusion, the results and observations collectively highlight that rainwater harvesting,
when implemented with proper planning and periodic maintenance, can play a
transformative role in addressing water scarcity and promoting sustainable development."

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CHAPTER 5 : Implementation of Rainwater Harvesting Systems

5.1 Introduction
The internship on Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) has provided valuable exposure to both the
theoretical understanding and the practical application of one of the most effective water
conservation strategies available today. The journey from identifying the problem of water
scarcity to designing a feasible rainwater harvesting system, estimating its potential, and
analyzing its long-term impacts has been deeply enriching. This chapter presents the overall
conclusions drawn from the internship and outlines recommendations for wider adoption
and future improvements in rainwater harvesting practices.

5.2 Key Conclusions

The following major conclusions emerged from the internship:
1. Immense Potential of RWH – Rainwater harvesting can make a remarkable
contribution to reducing water scarcity. Even relatively small rooftop areas are
capable of collecting large volumes of rainwater annually. This water, if harvested and
stored efficiently, can significantly reduce dependency on municipal supply and
groundwater sources.
2. Simple and Affordable Technology – The internship highlighted that the basic
structure of a rainwater harvesting system is not complex. Components like rooftop
catchment areas, gutters, downpipes, first-flush devices, filters, and storage tanks are
easy to design and install. Moreover, locally available materials like sand, gravel, and
charcoal can be effectively used for filtration, making the technology accessible to
households, institutions, and rural communities.
3. Improvement in Water Quality – While raw rainwater can carry impurities, simple
filtration methods significantly enhance its quality for household purposes. The
results of the prototype filter showed clear improvements in clarity and usability of
the water. Though additional treatment may be required for drinking, rainwater is
highly suitable for non-potable uses such as cleaning, gardening, and flushing toilets.
4. Sustainability Benefits – Beyond just solving the immediate problem of water
scarcity, RWH has far-reaching environmental benefits. It reduces the strain on
groundwater reserves, prevents flooding by reducing surface runoff, and contributes
to recharging aquifers. At the same time, it promotes community awareness about
water as a shared resource that must be conserved for future generations.
5. Economic Feasibility – An important conclusion is that the system is financially
viable. The initial investment in constructing storage tanks and filters is offset in the
long run by reduced water bills, lower dependence on external supply, and reduced
energy costs related to pumping groundwater. With minimal maintenance, an RWH
system can serve effectively for many years, making it a cost-efficient solution.

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5.3 Recommendations
Based on the findings, the following recommendations are suggested for ensuring the
successful implementation and expansion of rainwater harvesting systems:
1. Institutional Adoption – Schools, colleges, hospitals, and government buildings
should lead the way by setting up large-scale rainwater harvesting systems. These
institutions typically have large roof areas, making them ideal candidates for
capturing and storing huge volumes of rainwater. Such initiatives can also serve as
demonstration projects to inspire the local community.
2. Awareness and Training – Public awareness campaigns and training workshops
should be organized to educate people about the process, benefits, and maintenance
of RWH. Often, the lack of knowledge and technical know-how prevents households
from adopting the system. By conducting awareness drives, communities can be
encouraged to install and maintain their own units.
3. Government Policies and Incentives – Local governing bodies should make rainwater
harvesting mandatory in new buildings, as has been done in some states of India.
Subsidies, financial assistance, and tax rebates can further encourage people to
install systems. Policy support can transform RWH from a voluntary practice into a
widespread, mainstream solution.
4. Maintenance Protocols – Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity
and effectiveness of RWH systems. Regular cleaning of gutters, inspection of pipes,
and periodic replacement of filter materials should be made routine practices.
Communities can even form local maintenance groups to manage shared systems.
5. Integration with Modern Technology – To enhance efficiency, RWH systems can be
integrated with modern technologies such as sensors for monitoring tank levels,
automated first-flush systems, and smart filtration units. Such innovations can make
the systems more user-friendly and reliable.
6. Community-Based Systems – In rural areas or densely populated urban settlements,
community-based rainwater harvesting units should be encouraged. These shared
systems can serve multiple households, ensuring equitable access to water and
reducing costs through collective participation.

5.4 Long-Term Vision

The internship has made it evident that rainwater harvesting is not merely a short-term fix
but a long-term solution that aligns perfectly with sustainable development goals. If widely
implemented, RWH can transform urban and rural water management systems, reduce the
frequency of water shortages, and create resilient communities that are less vulnerable to
climate change and erratic rainfall patterns.

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In the future, combining traditional wisdom with modern engineering can result in
innovative and highly effective rainwater harvesting solutions. The youth, particularly
engineering students and future professionals, have a vital role to play in spreading this
technology, adapting it to local conditions, and continuously improving its design for
maximum benefit.

5.5 Final Summary

In conclusion, this academic internship has provided hands-on exposure to one of the most
relevant and practical solutions to water scarcity. Rainwater harvesting, with its simplicity,
affordability, and sustainability, offers a promising path toward water security. By adopting
the recommendations outlined above, both individuals and institutions can contribute
significantly to conserving water and ensuring that this precious resource is available for
generations to come.
The knowledge, skills, and insights gained through this internship will not only help in future
academic and professional pursuits but also serve as a foundation for promoting sustainable
practices in society.

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CHAPTER 6: REFERENCES AND ANNEXURES

6.1 Introduction
Every academic internship or research-based project is supported by a foundation of
information gathered from books, journals, articles, and field visits. Rainwater harvesting,
being a multidisciplinary subject, required the use of resources from civil engineering,
environmental studies, sustainable development, and policy guidelines. In addition to
textual resources, practical experiences, interactions with supervisors, and institutional
support also played a vital role in shaping this report. This chapter presents the references
and annexures that have been used to compile and strengthen the study.

6.2 References
References are the backbone of any academic document. They provide authenticity, ensure
accuracy, and acknowledge the contribution of previous researchers and practitioners. The
references used in this report span from technical manuals to government publications,
ensuring that the content is both academically sound and practically relevant.
Key References Consulted:
• Books and Academic Texts
o Rainwater Harvesting: A Lifeline for Human Well-Being by Stockholm
Environment Institute – provided theoretical insight into global practices.
o Water Resources Engineering by Larry W. Mays – offered technical
understanding of hydrological calculations.
o Sustainable Water Management in India by P. C. Bansil – helped in
understanding the Indian context of water challenges.
• Research Papers and Journals
o Various articles published in the Journal of Water Resource Management and
International Journal of Environmental Engineering were reviewed for case
studies and technical validation.
o Research papers on urban rainwater harvesting models in Indian cities such as
Bangalore and Chennai guided the design recommendations in this report.
• Government Policies and Reports
o Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) guidelines on artificial recharge
structures.
o Ministry of Jal Shakti’s “Jal Shakti Abhiyan” reports.
o State-level mandates on mandatory rainwater harvesting for urban housing
societies.

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• Web-Based Resources
o United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) website for sustainability
goals and climate impact.
o Reputed NGO websites such as WaterAid India and Centre for Science and
Environment (CSE) for practical guides and success stories.
Together, these references provided both the theoretical foundation and practical
understanding necessary for preparing this report.

6.3 Annexures
Annexures are supplementary materials that support the main body of the report. They
provide additional clarity, evidence, and background information. The annexures included in
this report serve as a bridge between theoretical concepts and practical understanding.
Annexure I – Internship Certificate
A scanned copy of the official internship completion certificate issued by the hosting
organization/institution. This serves as a formal acknowledgment of the training and
experience gained.
Annexure II – Design Diagrams
Illustrative sketches of a typical rooftop rainwater harvesting system, including components
such as catchment areas, gutters, downpipes, filters, storage tanks, and recharge pits. These
diagrams help readers visualize the system described in Chapter 3.
Annexure III – Site Photographs
Photographs captured during field visits to locations where rainwater harvesting systems
were either under construction or already in operation. These images highlight real-life
applications, materials used, and practical layouts.
Annexure IV – Internship Daily Log
A record of the daily activities, including field visits, discussions with supervisors, literature
review sessions, and practical demonstrations. This log reflects the day-to-day learning
journey during the internship period.
Annexure V – Glossary of Technical Terms
To aid readers unfamiliar with technical terms, a glossary has been provided. Terms such as
“percolation pit,” “first flush system,” “aquifer recharge,” and “catchment efficiency” are
explained in simple words.

6.4 Importance of References and Annexures

The references ensure the academic reliability of the report, while annexures make the
content more practical, relatable, and verifiable. Together, they provide a complete view of

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the subject – not just what was studied, but also how it was experienced and validated. They
also make the report more transparent, allowing evaluators or future readers to cross-check
the information and expand on it for further studies.

6.5 Conclusion
The inclusion of references and annexures ensures that this internship report on Rainwater
Harvesting is comprehensive, credible, and well-documented. They reflect both the depth of
research and the hands-on learning that took place during the internship. Future readers,
whether they are students, practitioners, or policymakers, can utilize these supporting
materials as a starting point for their own research or implementation projects.

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CHAPTER 7: – Impact Assessment and Discussion

7.1 Introduction
The completion of this academic internship on Rainwater Harvesting provided an in-depth
understanding of water resource management and its vital importance in today’s world.
Throughout the internship period, a balance was maintained between theoretical study and
practical exposure. The experiences gained, from analyzing the need for rainwater
harvesting to studying the design of actual systems, reinforced the relevance of sustainable
solutions in engineering practice. This chapter consolidates the key conclusions drawn from
the study and outlines practical recommendations for future implementation.

7.2 Key Conclusions

1. Water Scarcity is a Critical Challenge
The internship reaffirmed the fact that freshwater scarcity is one of the biggest
environmental and social challenges faced by India and many parts of the world.
Erratic monsoons, rapid urbanization, and over-dependence on groundwater are
placing extreme pressure on water resources.
2. Rainwater Harvesting is a Viable Solution
Rainwater harvesting emerged as an effective, low-cost, and eco-friendly solution
that can address water scarcity. It not only supplements existing water supplies but
also reduces dependence on groundwater extraction, thus preventing depletion of
aquifers.
3. Diverse Applications
Rainwater harvesting can be successfully implemented in residential buildings,
hostels, schools, industries, and agricultural lands. During the internship, it became
clear that both large-scale institutional systems and small-scale household models
can significantly contribute to water security if designed and maintained properly.
4. Role of Engineering in Sustainable Development
Mechanical and civil engineering knowledge plays a vital role in designing efficient
storage tanks, filtration units, and distribution systems. The integration of technology
with traditional wisdom strengthens the system’s effectiveness.
5. Community Participation is Essential
One of the critical findings was that technology alone cannot ensure success.
Awareness, willingness, and active participation of communities are equally
important for the long-term sustainability of rainwater harvesting systems.
6. Internship as a Learning Platform
On a personal and academic level, this internship provided opportunities to
understand how classroom theories can be applied to real-life environmental

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problems. It improved technical knowledge, problem-solving ability, and awareness

about sustainable living practices.

7.3 Recommendations
Based on the internship experiences and study of rainwater harvesting systems, the
following recommendations are suggested:
1. Policy Strengthening
Government bodies should enforce stricter regulations to make rainwater harvesting
mandatory in all urban buildings, particularly in water-stressed regions. Financial
incentives and subsidies can also motivate people to adopt the system.
2. Awareness Campaigns
Conducting awareness programs in schools, colleges, and communities can educate
people about the benefits of rainwater harvesting. Demonstration models should be
installed in public places to inspire citizens.
3. Integration with Modern Technology
Use of smart sensors to monitor water levels, automatic filtration units, and mobile-
based applications for maintenance can improve system efficiency and user-
friendliness.
4. Maintenance Guidelines
Simple manuals should be distributed to homeowners and institutions highlighting
periodic cleaning of catchment areas, gutters, and filters. Neglecting maintenance is
one of the most common causes of system failure.
5. Research and Innovation
Engineering students and researchers should focus on low-cost materials, innovative
storage solutions, and energy-efficient pumps to make rainwater harvesting
accessible to rural and low-income communities.
6. Scaling for Agriculture
Beyond urban areas, rural farmers should be encouraged to adopt farm ponds, check
dams, and percolation pits for storing rainwater, ensuring water availability for
irrigation during dry seasons.
7. Student Internships and Projects
Academic institutions should include rainwater harvesting projects as part of their
internship programs. This will not only provide practical exposure but also promote
sustainable practices among young engineers.

7.4 Conclusion
In conclusion, the internship on Rainwater Harvesting has been a journey of learning,
application, and realization of the importance of water conservation. It demonstrated that

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while the problem of water scarcity is complex, the solution can be simple and effective if
executed with dedication and awareness. Rainwater harvesting is not merely a technological
intervention but a social responsibility that every citizen must embrace.
For students like us, this internship has not only broadened technical knowledge but also
instilled a sense of responsibility towards society and the environment. Moving forward, the
key lies in scaling up implementation, ensuring community participation, and integrating
innovative technologies. If adopted widely, rainwater harvesting can transform the water
future of India and contribute to achieving the global goal of sustainable water
management.

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CHAPTER 8: REFERENCES & ANNEXURES

8.1 References
1. Garg, S. K. Water Supply Engineering. Khanna Publishers.
2. Agarwal, Anil & Narain, Sunita. Dying Wisdom. Centre for Science and Environment.
3. UNEP. Rainwater Harvesting and Utilization. 2017.
4. Government of India, Central Ground Water Board. Manual on Artificial Recharge of
Groundwater.
5. Jal Shakti Ministry Reports (2019–2023).
6. www.cseindia.org, www.unwater.org, www.indiawaterportal.org

8.2 Annexures
• Internship Schedule: Orientation, literature review, site visits, hands-on learning,
report preparation
• Daily Log: Study of rainwater harvesting methods, site visits to institutional and
residential systems, interaction with engineers, drafting designs, and policy review.
• Photographs: Rooftop collection system, filtration unit, recharge pit.
• Glossary:
o Catchment: Surface where rainwater falls.
o First-Flush: Device to divert initial dirty rainwater.
o Aquifer: Underground water-storing layer.

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CHAPTER 9: FINAL REFLECTION AND FUTURE SCOPE

9.1 Final Reflection
The academic internship on Rainwater Harvesting has been a valuable journey that blended
theoretical learning with practical insights. Beyond understanding the mechanics of water
collection and storage, the internship highlighted the interdisciplinary nature of engineering
solutions where environmental, social, and economic aspects must work together.
Personally, this internship helped to:
• Build awareness about the global and local water crisis.
• Strengthen technical knowledge in design and implementation of harvesting systems.
• Improve problem-solving, teamwork, and analytical abilities.
• Develop a sense of social responsibility as an engineer in training.
The experience demonstrated that simple ideas, when applied correctly, can solve large-
scale problems. Rainwater harvesting is not just about tanks and pipes; it is about reshaping
people’s relationship with water.

9.2 Future Scope

Rainwater harvesting has vast potential for development in India and across the globe. Some
promising future directions include:
1. Integration with Smart Technology – Use of IoT sensors for monitoring water levels,
leak detection, and quality testing.
2. Hybrid Systems – Combining rainwater harvesting with solar energy and greywater
recycling to make buildings fully sustainable.
3. Urban Planning – Making rooftop harvesting, permeable pavements, and green roofs
mandatory in smart cities.
4. Rural Empowerment – Training rural communities in low-cost harvesting methods to
ensure year-round water supply for agriculture.
5. Research Opportunities – Exploring new filtration media, energy-efficient pumps,
and advanced storage designs.

9.3 Closing Note

As engineers of the future, it is our duty to ensure sustainable water use. This internship was
not merely an academic requirement but an opportunity to contribute ideas for a better

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tomorrow. With collective effort and innovative engineering, rainwater harvesting can pave
the way for a water-secure and sustainable world.

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CHAPTER 10: PHOTOS

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CHAPTER 11: FUTURE SCOPE & OVERALL CONCLUSION

10.1 Future Scope
• IoT-based smart rainwater systems.
• Government subsidies for large-scale adoption.
• Integration with renewable energy systems.

10.2 Conclusion
Rainwater harvesting is a practical, cost-effective, and sustainable solution to the global
water crisis. Engineers and policymakers must work together to ensure widespread
implementation

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