Design Optimization of Community-Based Rainwater Harvesting Systems for Enhancing Groundwater Recharge in Rural Ranchi, Jharkhand.

Ranchi district of Jharkhand receives good annual rainfall (about 1200–1400 mm), but many rural villages such as Ormanjhi, Angara, Mandar, Kanke (rural area), and Namkum face water shortage during summer due to poor storage and low groundwater levels. This study focuses on the design optimization of community-based rainwater harvesting systems to improve groundwater recharge and water availability. The research includes rainfall analysis, runoff calculation, and design of recharge structures such as farm ponds, recharge pits, and community storage tanks. The proposed system helps in storing rainwater and allowing it to percolate into the ground to increase groundwater levels. The implementation of this system will benefit farmers by providing irrigation water during dry seasons, increasing crop production, and reducing dependency on borewells. Villagers will also get improved drinking water supply and reduced water scarcity during summer months. The study concludes that properly designed rainwater harvesting systems can provide a sustainable and cost-effective solution for rural water problems in Ranchi district.