Site selection and storage system design for rainwater harvesting with artificial recharge based on hydrogeological and socio-economic consideration in qualitative and quantitative water-stressed areas of North 24 Parganas, India

Rural households of North 24 Parganas district, West Bengal (India), suffer twofold water-related problems, viz. supply of contaminated groundwater and waterlogging due to excessive rainfall for the last four decades. The present study deals with a mixed mode approach encompassing physical, socio-economic, and hydrogeological aspects to assess the water scarcity and feasibility of RWH among four blocks of North 24 Parganas, India. A hydrogeological cross-section (Fench Diagram) was developed to assess the potential of artificial recharge followed by the identification of artificial recharge sites with suitable structures using RS and GIS. Water quality parameters like TDS, ammonia-N, and chloride were found within the respective safe limit prescribed for drinking purposes in the water samples. The extent of water stress was assessed by a socio-economic survey conducted for rural households. Rural households expressed their willingness to adopt RWH subject to certain conditions. The LULC study showed a rapid increase (21.69%) in the built-up area during 2010–2020. The capacity of the storage tank was calculated as 6000 l for individual rural households. Sixty grams of disinfectant was suggested for the treatment of the harvested rainwater. The methods suggested would help local authorities execute successfully the RWH schemes in water-stressed areas.