Mangaluru: As the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal, continues to expand its campus and accommodate a growing population, ensuring a sustainable water supply has emerged as a pressing challenge. To tackle this issue, the institution has developed a large-scale rainwater harvesting (RWH) project named NITKere, a 30-million-litre reservoir designed to meet the campus’s increasing water demand.
Addressing a critical water shortage
NITK currently houses nearly 7,000 residents, with a daily requirement of around 1.2 million litres of potable water. However, the Mangaluru City Corporation (MCC) has been able to supply only about half of this demand, resulting in severe shortages, particularly during the dry summer months.
The campus’s geographical characteristics have compounded the problem. The lateritic soil in the region is known for poor water retention and high hydraulic conductivity, which causes water to percolate rapidly and flow laterally, making groundwater recharge ineffective.
A collaborative initiative
The concept of NITKere was developed in May 2024 after a brainstorming session between experts from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore and NITK Surathkal. The project is aimed at ensuring self-reliance in water supply by creating multiple RWH reservoirs across the campus.
NITK director B Ravi recently inaugurated the reservoir in the presence of alumni and faculty members. The inauguration included a symbolic worship ceremony near the lake, underscoring the institution’s commitment to sustainable development.
Features of the NITKere reservoir
Phase I of the project saw the construction of a reservoir on 2.5 acres of low-lying land on the northern side of the campus. The reservoir has a depth of 4.8 metres and measures 100 by 60 metres, with a total storage capacity of 30 million litres.
The project has also taken care to preserve the lush green forest cover around the site. A build-and-transfer model was adopted for its execution, funded primarily by contributions from alumni batches of 1974 and 1999, along with the NITK Alumni Association.
Plans for phase II
According to the NITK spokesperson, the upcoming phase of the project will include laying pavers for a walking path around the reservoir, installing fencing for safety, setting up pumping machinery, and laying pipelines to channel the stored water effectively. The administration is seeking additional support through alumni donations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) grants to fund these developments.
Towards sustainable water management
The NITKere project is a crucial step in addressing the campus’s long-term water needs and reducing its dependence on external supply sources. By implementing large-scale RWH systems, the institute aims to set an example for other educational institutions facing similar challenges.
This initiative not only tackles an immediate concern but also reinforces NITK’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and environmental conservation. Once fully completed, the reservoir will play a key role in ensuring reliable water access for the campus community while promoting eco-friendly practices.