VADODARA: Dharmendra Parmar had been mulling to install a rainwater harvesting system at his house for quite some time. But he was hesitant due to the cost and had little understanding of the system. But a group of engineers didn’t just educate him about water harvesting but also provided the water filter for free.
“I could install the harvesting system due to their initiative and sharing the expenses. I feel I am now contributing in saving water and conserving the environment,” Parmar said. Like Parmar, the Engineering Sewa Trust (EWT), a group of around 100 retired and working engineers, has helped many citizens install the rainwater harvesting system through their subsidized scheme.
The group has been installing rainwater harvesting system in the city for years. But they realized that many people are hesitant due to the cost. “So, last monsoon, we came up with the scheme of bearing 50% cost of installing the system with the beneficiary,” said Harendra Pathak, a member of EST.
EST was formed way back in 1990 by a group of engineers and they began promoting rainwater harvesting in the state about 15 years ago. Having over 100 retired as well as working engineers, EST has installed rainwater harvesting systems in over 500 residential colonies, schools, NGOs and industries apart from innumerable individuals by providing free consultancy.
“Once people are convinced with the plan and scheme, we provide free consultancy for installation and share 50% cost of the project,” Pathak told TOI. He said that dozens of individuals have taken benefit of their initiative in the city and installed a water harvesting system at their home. Installing the system costs anywhere between Rs 15,000 to Rs 30,000 including the cost of material and water filter.
The group gets generous donations and this money is being pumped into the scheme. They also provide water filters required in the system for free to those who can't afford it.
“Our sole objective is to ensure that maximum people install rainwater harvesting systems in their homes or buildings. It’s the only way to increase the depleting levels of the underground water table,” Pathak added.
Despite their busy schedule, the working engineers visit the needy persons on weekends to offer free consultancy . EST members also hold seminars and train engineering students in designing and installing rainwater harvesting system. The group has also trained several plumbers who have now begun helping Barodians in installing the system.
