27 September 2024
World Water Series – Rainwater Conservation in Bangladesh
When you think of Bangladesh, water scarcity might not be the first thing that comes to mind. The country is often plagued by severe flooding due to its location at the northern tip of the Bay of Bengal, making it one of the world’s most vulnerable countries to coastal storms. Despite the abundance of water, Bangladesh lacks the necessary infrastructure to effectively collect and utilise it. Additionally, rising temperatures during the dry season are impacting the quality of groundwater.
This article explores several factors contributing to excess water in Bangladesh, the impacts of these factors, the efforts to improve water conservation, and the benefits to the locals.
Factors Leading to Water Excess
- Position of Land – Nearly 75 percent of Bangladesh sits below sea level, with much of the land only a few feet above sea level.
- Monsoon Rains – From June to October heavy rains can cause rivers to overflow.
- Geographical Location - Nearby countries’ rivers flow into Bangladesh.
- Deforestation – Changes in agriculture and land use contribute to reduced absorption of rainfall.
- Population Increase – Urban expansion leads to the removal of vegetation that would normally absorb rainfall.
- Snow Melt – Melting snow from the Himalayas results in surface runoff.
- Coastal Cyclones – Almost annually, damaging cyclones strike during early summer or late rainy season, causing destruction, homelessness, and loss of life.
Water Supply Challenges
Traditionally, women in Bangladesh are responsible for collecting water for their families, a task made even more challenging during menstruation, pregnancy, and postpartum. They often travel for hours on foot, sometimes multiple times a day. Coastal water sources can contain up to six times the permitted levels of saline, leading to health problems. In many cases, ponds used for washing and bathing are also used for drinking and can cause adverse health effects.
Ongoing Efforts for Improvement
A project run by the UNDP and funded by the Green Climate Fund provides families with 2000 litre rainwater tanks, easing the burden on those responsible for fetching water. Simple techniques like collecting rainwater on plastic sheets that are then stored in containers and later used are also effective.
More rainwater tanks are continuing to be installed in homes. and facilities are being built where communities can gather to collect clean, filtered water. The government is pushing for desalination and many plants have been built along the coastal districts. Improved infrastructure could help capture the 150 billion litres of rainwater that fall during the monsoon season. To mitigate the effects of water overflow, shelters have been constructed, a volunteer cyclone preparedness program established, and evacuation roads, riverbank protections, river excavation, and drainage canals are being developed.
Positive Effects
The rainwater tank projects not only make life easier and safer for those who collect water but also provide employment opportunities for women trained to install and maintain harvesting systems. The additional income offers financial support for their families.
Conclusion
By examining the challenges and advancements in rainwater conservation in Bangladesh, we gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s efforts to manage its water sources. Despite the challenges posed by its geographical location and climate, Bangladesh continues to develop innovative solutions to improve water conservation and enhance the quality of life for its residents.
