Lucknow Housing Department Implements Mandatory Waterbody Rule for Large Real Estate Developments
In a significant move aimed at enhancing urban sustainability, the housing department in Lucknow has issued a mandatory directive for construction companies and individuals undertaking real estate projects. The new regulation applies to residential, commercial, mixed-use, or any other type of development that spans 10 acres or more. Under this rule, such projects must now reserve 1% of the total land area specifically for the creation of a waterbody.
Dual Benefits: Groundwater Recharge and Water Recycling
This initiative is designed to serve multiple environmental purposes. Primarily, the waterbody will play a crucial role in recharging the groundwater levels, which have been depleting in many urban areas. Additionally, the water collected in these reservoirs will be recycled and utilized for various non-potable services. These include cleaning activities, maintaining green cover, and suppressing dust, thereby promoting efficient water management within the projects.
While provisions for rainwater conservation already exist in group housing projects, the introduction of an on-site waterbody represents a strategic enhancement. It will facilitate the diversion and recycling of daily water usage from activities such as car washing, mopping, and irrigation. Senior officials from the department emphasized that the core objective is to prevent the wastage of 'surface runoff' water. "The overflow water from uses like car cleaning, mopping, and irrigation will be directed towards the waterbody," explained an official, highlighting the practical implementation of this measure.
Technical Implementation and Design Specifications
To ensure the effectiveness of these waterbodies, the housing department will require the expertise of land surveyors or geomatics professionals. Their role will be to determine the ground elevation, ensuring that the waterbody is developed at a lower level. This natural gradient will help attract runoff water towards the reservoir effortlessly. Ideally, a depth of 2 meters shall be maintained for the waterbody to optimize its capacity and functionality.
Addressing Urban Heat Island Effect
The recent government order, issued by P Guruprasad, the principal secretary of the housing department, is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the urban heat island effect within cities. This phenomenon, where urban areas experience higher temperatures than their rural surroundings, is exacerbated by excessive concrete and lack of green spaces. By mandating waterbodies, the department aims to cool the environment and enhance ecological balance.
Additional Measures to Reduce Concrete Usage
In a complementary order, the housing department has also introduced stricter guidelines for developers regarding green cover and landscaping. While planning parks and green areas, developers must now minimize the use of concrete. Clearance for layout plans will only be granted when parks are developed with minimal concrete application. Specifically, only 5% of the total area designated as green cover or parks can be developed using concrete mix.
Furthermore, the department has mandated that jogging tracks and walkways within building compounds be constructed using permeable materials. These materials allow water to seep into the ground, promoting natural water absorption and reducing surface runoff. This measure aligns with the overall goal of sustainable urban development and water conservation.
These comprehensive regulations reflect Lucknow's commitment to fostering environmentally responsible real estate practices. By integrating waterbodies and reducing concrete usage, the city aims to create more livable, sustainable urban spaces that prioritize ecological health and resource efficiency.
