A recent inspection by the groundwater department revealed that 140 out of 164 residential societies in Noida and Greater Noida had non-functional rainwater harvesting systems, with 10 lacking the systems entirely. Only 14 societies were found to have operational systems. The Noida Authority, after meeting with the groundwater department, decided to issue notices to all societies, providing them with 15 days to comply. A joint inspection will follow, and non-compliance will result in enforcement actions.
Earlier this month, the groundwater department conducted inspections of rainwater harvesting systems in residential societies across Noida and Greater Noida. The survey uncovered that out of 164 societies, 140 had non-functional rainwater harvesting systems, while 10 lacked such facilities altogether. Only 14 societies were found to have operational rainwater harvesting systems. Officials observed that the 140 societies with inactive systems had rainwater harvesting pits filled with stagnant water and accumulated debris, which was leading to the contamination of groundwater.
Hydrologist Ankita Rai from the groundwater department emphasised that rainwater harvesting systems are required for all residential complexes and government buildings. She mentioned that while authorities check the installation of these systems before granting Occupancy and Completion Certificates, the maintenance of these systems often lapses after certification. This recent finding has raised concerns among residents about the validity of OC certificates issued to societies without proper rainwater harvesting systems in place.
In response, the Noida ACEO and the groundwater department held discussions last week, presenting investigation reports of the societies. It was decided that the Authority will issue notices to all societies, giving them 15 days to comply. After the 15-day compliance window, a joint inspection team, comprising Authority officials and representatives from the groundwater department, would assess the societies. It was stated that those failing to comply within the given timeframe would face punitive measures. Additionally, societies that had not installed the rainwater harvesting systems would be subjected to enforcement actions.
Rai mentioned that in around ten residential societies across Noida, functional rainwater harvesting systems were being efficiently managed by the respective Apartment Owners Associations (AOA). She noted that these associations ensured regular maintenance, demonstrating a clear understanding of the importance of rainwater harvesting, which contributed to the systems' continued operation. Rai also emphasised that it was equally crucial for builders to recognise and fulfil their responsibilities in this regard.
The groundwater department's findings highlight the lack of maintenance and adherence to regulations regarding rainwater harvesting systems in Noida and Greater Noida. The crackdown is a necessary step to ensure compliance with environmental policies and prevent groundwater contamination. While some societies effectively manage their systems, it is evident that more effort is required from builders and apartment owners to maintain these essential installations. The 15-day compliance period and subsequent joint inspections reflect the seriousness of the issue and the Authority's commitment to ensuring that all societies meet their legal obligations to install and maintain rainwater harvesting systems.
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