ECONOMIC POTENTIAL OF OPTIMIZING RAINWATER HARVESTING USING THE EXISTING PONDS IN MANIPUR UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

Abstract

Water scarcity, despite adequate rainfall in many regions, has become a critical challenge due to inefficient water management and climate variability. This study evaluates the economic feasibility and sustainability of optimizing rainwater harvesting (RWH) through existing pond systems at Manipur University. Located in a high-rainfall yet water-stressed region, the university campus presents significant untapped potential for decentralized water storage. The study integrates traditional pond structures with a mathematical inventory model to analyse water supply–demand dynamics under two scenarios: surplus (monsoon season) and deficit (dry season). The results indicate that maintaining optimal storage levels, rather than maximum capacity, minimizes operational costs and improves system efficiency during high rainfall periods. Conversely, dependence on external water sources during dry periods significantly increases costs, highlighting the economic advantage of improved in-campus water management. The findings also emphasize the role of catchment utilization, pond restoration, and alignment of water resources with population demand clusters. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of addressing real-world losses such as evaporation and seepage through proper maintenance and monitoring. The present investigation demonstrates that a scientifically managed, pond-based RWH system is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable, offering a scalable model for similar institutions in high-rainfall regions experiencing seasonal water scarcity.