A methodology to assess and evaluate sites with high potential for stormwater harvesting in Dehradun, India

Abstract

The urgency to protect natural water resources in a sustainable manner has risen as water scarcity and global climate change continue to worsen. Among various methods of collecting water, stormwater harvesting (SWH) is regarded as the most environmentally friendly approach to alleviating the strain on freshwater resources. The study introduces a robust approach to evaluating the potential for SWH, considering both technical and socioeconomic aspects. This method effectively identifies and assesses suitable areas, referred to as hotspots, for implementing SWH. Multiple criteria are established to quickly evaluate and analyze the suitability of these sites for stormwater harvesting. Moreover, the input from water experts is incorporated into the decision-making process. Initially, potential locations are chosen, and hotspots are identified based on the concept of accumulated catchments. Subsequently, a more detailed analysis is carried out on the shortlisted sites, utilizing multiple screening criteria such as demand, inverse weighted distance, and the runoff-to-demand ratio. A standardized method is then employed to rank the sites and determine the most suitable one for stormwater harvesting. The study identifies eight locations that are appropriate for SWH, with two of them being particularly suitable locations. Further, the radius of influence is added to encompass these sites in order to pinpoint the areas conducive to fulfilling water requirements and availability. This approach empowers water planners to make well-informed decisions in a more streamlined manner. Consequently, the methodology emphasizes the benefits of these tools for water experts who are actively seeking sustainable solutions to mitigate the pressure on freshwater resources.