An experiment by Bidar Zilla Panchayat engineers to convert defunct or failed borewells into shafts to recharge groundwater, has achieved two results: water table has gone up and the problem of open borewells has been addressed.
The experiment of using such borewells as recharge shafts was started a few years ago.
Ujjwal Kumar Ghosh, Chief Executive Officer of the zilla panchayat, said: “We have managed to convert around 600 defunct or failed borewells into recharge shafts. This has led to an increase in the water table in areas around such borewells.”
The procedure is simple and can be adapted anywhere, for public projects or at home, said P.M. Khan, senior geologist who supervised the process.
The procedureAccording to him, first, the ground around such borewells is dug up to around 3 ft.
Vertical slits of around 3-inch wide and 1- metre long are made on three sides of the shaft to allow water to flow in. Gravel and sand are then filled around the shaft. The top layer of small stones wrapped in a mosquito net ensures purification of the rainwater. Finally, the borewell is closed with a metal cap.
All this was achieved for less than Rs. 4,000 a unit, Mr. Khan explained.
Raju Rathod, a resident of Sevalal tanda on Bidar–Bhalki road, said: “We had four failed borewells in our hamlet. After one of them was converted into a recharge shaft, the other three started yielding water.”
Neelamma Wadde, zilla panchayat president, said: “Every other day we hear of children falling into open borewells. Authorities are struggling to find ways to close defunct borewells. They can benefit from our idea.”
It is cost effective and serves the dual purposes of closing dangerous shafts and increasing the water table, she said.
