Hyderabad man installs over 600 rainwater recharge systems after learning process himself
Ranga Prasad started his mission to conserve groundwater after failing to find a professional to build a recharge pit in 2015.
Ranga Prasad has installed more than 600 rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge systems across Hyderabad through his organisation, HydRainHarvest, according to a Times of India report. Prasad began his work after being unable to find a professional to build a rainwater recharge pit at his leased premises in Gachibowli during a water shortage in 2015.
Before focusing on water conservation, Prasad ran an organic food business and a fitness and yoga centre. He also participated in climate change awareness campaigns starting in 2009. To learn the technical aspects of the work, he attended training programmes and workshops across India and renovated old, non-functional recharge pits.
Prasad noted that Hyderabad receives an average annual rainfall of around 810 mm, but much of it flows into drains. He identified issues such as undersized pits, silt blockages, and improper connections. He estimates that approximately 350 out of every 1,000 houses have rainwater harvesting pits, though most lack regular maintenance.
One project in a 40-acre gated community in Kokapet involved four large recharge structures and 40 individual systems. Some clients reported that their monthly tanker requirement fell from approximately 100 tankers to between 25 and 30 after installation.
HydRainHarvest is planning a one-square-kilometre demonstration project in Hyderabad to capture rainwater from rooftops, roads, and parks. Prasad is also exploring affordable greywater filtration systems to recharge groundwater beyond the monsoon season.