Potentials of Rainwater Harvesting as an Alternative Water Supply System in Dhaka City

Dhaka city is characterized by densely populated unplanned growth of predominantly building infrastructures. Concerned water supply authority is unable to fulfill the water demand. Shortage in supply and unavailability of groundwater is increasing day by day. In such situation rainwater harvesting is thought to be the next alternative option. Rainwater Harvesting System (RWHS) is basically a simple, technically feasible and socially acceptable system to capture and use rainwater for various purposes. This study intends to assess the potentiality of rainwater harvesting for domestic use. Rainwater harvesting potential equation calculates the daily potential rainwater supply for residential apartments. Testing of rainwater quality suggests that it is convenient to use rain water only for non-potable uses. In order to get benefits of rainwater harvesting some compulsory regulatory measures need to be imposed in the building development process along with awareness building activities. Therefore this paper identifies various challenges and problems related to explore full potential of rainwater harvesting in Dhaka city.