Accepted Papers - 3.pdf - UNESCO

Conclusions
The process of rainwater harvesting through
inter-linking is very cost effective, if implemented
in a systematic and planned manner, as compared
with other projects. It assists in maximizing the
utilization of available structures since these are able
to buffer the excess water flow. No land acquisition
is generally required and hence it helps in people’s
active participation that eliminates unwarranted
conflicts. However, these type of projects could be
possible only in limited geographical context where
the inter-linking distances are small, surface
topography is favorable and the possible impacts
of such projects do not adversely affect large number
of people.
Similarly, the conversion of mined out pits into
water reservoirs is one of the best ways to reclaim
the area. The availability of large quantity of water
not only improves the aesthetics of the area; it has a
positive impact on the earning potential of the
nearby farmers. As such it fits well into the objective
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of sustainable mine closure, need of the hour.
These kind of micro-level interventions are
proving viable, feasible and cost effective
alternatives for macro-level replication for larger
benefits. As a matter fact, the Government of Gujarat
has recognized these efforts and ACF is now
considered as nodal agency by the government to
help replicate such models elsewhere in the state
on a large scale.
Acknowledgements
The authors express their sincere thanks to the
management of GACL and ACF for kindly allowing
to use the various informations, documents and
references for inclusion this paper. Special thanks
are due to Shri H S Patel, President; Gujarat Ambuja
Cements Limited for his guidance and
encouragement on the subject matter. The views
expressed herein belong to authors and not
necessarily that of their organizations.