As the town of Mongar in Bhutan grows rapidly, its already limited water supply capacity will be unable to meet demand. Rainwater harvesting offers a cheap and sustainable solution.

The current population of Mongar is 2,500 and the town faces a shortage of 88,000 litres of drinking water a day. With the population expected to expand to nearly 15,000, the water shortage is set to grow with it. Most of Mongar's water comes from two rivers, the Yagpogang and the Khereerinree. While the town currently consumes 653,000 litres a day, the rivers can only supply 561,000 litres a day in winter.

The municipal authorities have started to draw water from three other sources, but they all lie below the town and the costs are high. Rainwater harvesting therefore offers a cheaper and more sustainable solution. The municipality has plans to construct large collection tanks and is encouraging the installation of individual collection systems on the roofs of homes, offices and schools. Water is currently being rationed, to conserve available supplies.

Related news:

• Bangladesh: rainwater harvesting may ease water crisis in Dhaka, Source South Asia, 29 Oct 2008;
• Rainwater harvesting: Indian town gets 24/7 water supply, Source South Asia, 21 Jan 2008

Related publication:

• Thomas, T.H. and Martinson, D.B. (2007). Roofwater harvesting : a handbook for practitioners. (Technical paper series / IRC; no. 49). Delft, The Netherlands, IRC International Water and Sanitation Centre. Download here

Source: Tshering Namgay, Kuensel Online, 09 Oct 2008

Tags: south asia, urban wash, water collection