Rainwater Harvesting Should Be Seamlessly Integrated Into Delhi’s Climate Resilience Planning, Authorities Must Explore Innovative Strategies: High Court

Taking note of the “unprecedented weather events” witnessed by the national capital this year, the Delhi High Court has observed that rainwater harvesting should be seamlessly integrated into the city's climate resilience planning for which the authorities must continually explore innovative strategies.

“A persistent focus on educating the public and resident welfare associations about the advantages of rainwater harvesting, coupled with practical implementation guidance, can catalyze a cultural shift towards sustainable water practices,” a division bench of Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Sanjeev Narula said.

The bench also said that the Delhi Government and other authorities like Municipal Corporation of Delhi and Delhi Development Authority must periodically review empirical data on implementation of rainwater harvesting measures to ascertain whether their efforts are producing tangible results and take corrective measures, if so required.

“…while substantial progress has undoubtedly been made, the evolving landscape of the Delhi, where urbanization and climate change intersect, amplifies the urgency of water conservation. The unwavering commitment of concerned authorities, to this cause, is thus imperative. Rainwater harvesting should be seamlessly integrated into the city's climate resilience planning,” the court said.

The court made the observations while disposing of a public interest litigation moved in 2014 by Advocate RK Kapoor concerning the issue of water conservation in Delhi. The plea focussed on implementation of rainwater harvesting initiatives.

Acknowledging Kapoor’s commendable efforts in bringing the crucial matter of rainwater harvesting to the forefront, the bench said that the urgency of water conservation has never been more paramount than in the dynamic urban landscapes of the present era.

“The challenge now lies in harnessing the potential of rainwater harvesting systems and aligning sewer, drainage, and water storage systems to maximize the efficiency of rainwater utilization, regardless of the nature of the precipitation—be it excessive or intermittent. This integrated approach is indispensable to bolstering water conservation efforts,” the court said.

Noting that the affidavits and status reports put forth by the authorities revealed an “array of actions” aimed at promoting rainwater harvesting and alleviating water scarcity concerns, the bench said,

“The combined efforts of DJB and GNCTD, marked by installation of rainwater harvesting systems across both private and public structures, along with reinvigoration of water bodies are appreciable. The development of manuals by CGWB and CPWD, offering guidance on artificial groundwater recharge structures and enabling individuals to seek necessary approvals, also represents a valuable step- forward. The inclusion of rainwater harvesting mandates within building bye- laws further underscores the commitment to water conservation.”

Case Title: R.K. KAPOOR v. NATIONAL CAPITAL TERRITORY OF DELHI & ORS

Citation: 2023 LiveLaw (Del) 702

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