NCRTC to develop large-scale rainwater harvesting system across Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor

Continuing its march towards environmental sustainability, NCRTC begins to develop large-scale rainwater harvesting systems across Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut RRTS corridor where more than 900 rainwater harvesting pits are to be developed, out of which 75% work has been completed.

More Details:

The rainwater harvesting initiative involves building over 900 rainwater harvesting pits across elevated viaducts, stations, and depots, stretching between Sarai Kale Khan in Delhi to Modipuram in Meerut. Over 75% of these systems are already operational, while the work on the remaining pits is ongoing. These pits are expected to recharge millions of cubic metres of groundwater, contributing significantly to water table levels.

Rainwater Harvesting for RRTS Corridor:

  • The rainwater harvesting pits are strategically placed to maximise water collection. Along the elevated sections of the corridor, the pits are integrated into the viaduct spans, allowing for direct capture of rainwater.
  • Since the majority of the RRTS corridor runs through the centre of existing roads, the primary location for these pits is the median, ensuring optimal water management. The initiative also incorporates rainwater harvesting at each RRTS station.
  • Two pits are being built near every entry/exit gate. Additionally, both depots – one operational in Duhai, Ghaziabad, and the other under construction in Modipuram – feature a significant number of rainwater harvesting pits, with over 20 implemented at Duhai depot alone.

Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting:

  • The rainwater harvesting system features a series of pits built beneath the viaduct at intervals corresponding to each viaduct span.
  • These pits collect rainwater channelled from the viaduct above. Three-layered filters composed of gravel and sand are incorporated to clean the collected water before it reaches the ground.
  • A unique double chamber design further enhances water absorption. Two small water chambers are constructed face-to-face underground, connected by a central rainwater harvesting pit.
  • During rainfall, water flows from the viaduct into these chambers before being absorbed into the ground through the central pit.

  • The depth of these pits varies between 16 and 22 metres, depending on the local groundwater level.
  • Rainwater harvesting pits are being constructed alongside the ongoing construction of the remaining corridor sections.
  • For the already operational 34 km stretch between Sahibabad and Modi Nagar North, rainwater harvesting pits are fully functional.

NCRTC’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond rainwater harvesting. The organisation is actively pursuing the highest rating of IGBC certification for all RRTS stations, depots, and buildings. Several RRTS stations and Receiving Sub-Substations (RSS) have already achieved this prestigious “Platinum Rating,” including Sahibabad and Guldhar RRTS Stations, Ghaziabad and Muradnagar Receiving Substations, and most recently, the Duhai RRTS Station. This dedication to sustainability ensures the entire RRTS system is eco-friendly at every level.

Source: NCRTC – Press Release | Images Credit: NCRTC


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