Water Conservation Facilities at Alva’s Institute of Engineering & Technology

Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology (AIET) is deeply committed to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. One of its standout initiatives is its Water Conservation Facilities, designed to preserve one of the planet’s most precious resources. At AIET, water conservation is more than compliance—it is integral to campus planning, student awareness, and long-term ecological balance.

Why Water Conservation Matters

Water is finite, yet essential in every dimension of life—academic, residential, agricultural, and more. With changing climate patterns, increasing usage, and unpredictable rainfall, institutions like Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology must lead by example.

• Conserves groundwater levels

• Reduces dependency on external water sources

• Promotes sustainability among students and staff

• Helps campus comply with environmental norms and green building practices

 Campus Planning Based on Topography

At AIET, water conservation begins with thoughtful planning:

• A detailed contour map of the campus helps in locating natural slopes, ridgelines, depressions, and flow paths.

• Using that map, drainage path lines are designed to guide rainwater from rooftop and open surfaces toward collection or recharge zones.

• Existing roads, pathways, and built-infrastructure are integrated in the design so that water isn’t obstructed, wasted, or causing erosion.

This thoughtful planning ensures efficient flow, minimal civil work, and optimal performance.

 Rainwater Harvesting System

One of the cornerstones of AIET’s water conservation facilities is the Rain Water Harvesting (RWH) System.

• Rooftop catchment: All buildings have rainwater‐collecting roofs that channel rainwater through gutters and downpipes.

• Storage and recharge: Collected rainwater is directed into borewell recharge units and specially constructed water harvesting ponds. These are placed especially near hostel buildings for proximity and efficiency.

• Percolation pits: These are dug at specific spots based on slope and soil type to allow water to seep deep into the ground, recharging groundwater.

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 Design of Percolation Pits & Ponds

Percolation pits and ponds are critical components of the system. Their size, number, location, and construction depend upon:

• Soil permeability testing

• Rainfall data and intensity

• Catchment area size

• Drainage path layout

These structures are built in such a way that they can handle peak water flow, avoid stagnation, and allow proper infiltration.

 Borewell Recharge Units

When rainwater is collected from rooftops and surfaces, it doesn’t all stay on the surface.

• Borewell recharge units help by channeling water directly into groundwater aquifers.

• This reduces drop in water table, particularly during summer months when demand rises.

 Role of Water Harvesting Ponds

Ponds near hostel buildings serve multiple purposes:

• They act as buffer storage when sudden heavy rain occurs.

• They slow down runoff, reducing erosion.

• They also become part of the campus ecosystem—supporting micro-habitats for flora and fauna.

 Economic Design Considerations

Water conservation facilities must be cost-efficient and maintainable.

• The design uses existing contour features to minimize earthwork.

• Materials are sourced locally wherever possible.

• Maintenance plan is scheduled and managed to ensure longevity (cleaning, desilting, checking overflow / safety features).

 Implementation Timeline & Phases

At Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology:

1. Survey and mapping phase: contour mapping, soil checks.

2. Design phase: drainage lines, pit & pond locations.

3. Construction phase: pits, ponds, recharge wells, rooftop gutters.

4. Monitoring & maintenance: especially after monsoon, checking for clogging, overflow or damage.

Challenges & Mitigations

Some challenges faced in implementing water conservation facilities include:

Final Words

Alva’s Institute of Engineering and Technology has embraced water conservation as a core element of its campus identity. Through carefully planned rainwater harvesting systems, borewell recharge units, percolation pits, and ponds, AIET is making tangible progress toward sustainable water use. These facilities not only conserve water but educate, inspire, and protect the environment. Our campus is more than a place of learning—it is a living example of how we can respect, preserve, and renew our natural resources.