Harvesting SystemBroadly rainwater can be harvested for two purposes

Storing rainwater for ready use in containers above or below ground

Charged into the soil for withdrawal later

From where to harvest rain

Rainwater harvesting can be harvested from the following surfaces

Rooftops:If buildings with impervious roofs are already in place, the catchment area is effectively available free of charge and they provide a supply at the point of consumption.Paved and unpaved areasi.e., landscapes, open fields, parks, stormwater drains, roads and pavements and other open areas can be effectively used to harvest the runoff. The main advantage in using ground as collecting surface is that water can be collected from a larger area. This is particularly advantageous in areas of low rainfall.

Waterbodies:The potential of lakes, tanks and ponds to store rainwater is immense. The harvested rainwater can not only be used to meet water requirements of the city, it also recharges groundwater aquifers.Stormwater drains:Most of the residential colonies have proper network of stormwater drains. If maintained neatly, these offer a simple and cost effective means for harvesting rainwater.