Percolation tank
Topic: Water Resources of India: Availability, Use and Conservation · NCERT: Class 12, Ch 4 "Water Resources"
Meaning
A percolation tank is a pond built across a stream or in low ground to hold rainwater runoff (rain that flows over the surface). Its main job is not to store water for use. Its job is to let the water slowly seep down (percolate) into the ground. This refills the aquifers (underground layers of rock or soil that hold water) and raises the water level in nearby wells. It is a common part of watershed management in dry, hard-rock areas.
Example
At Ralegan Siddhi in Ahmednagar district, Maharashtra, Anna Hazare led villagers from 1975. Their first big step was repairing a percolation tank. Once it held water, it refilled seven wells in the village.
Don't confuse with
- Check dam: it is a barrier across a flowing stream that slows the water and traps silt. A percolation tank is a pond that stores runoff so it can soak in.
- Reservoir: it stores water that is drawn out for irrigation or supply. A percolation tank is meant to let its water go into the ground.
Related concepts
- Rainwater harvesting
- Rooftop rainwater harvesting
- Shillong rooftop rainwater harvesting
- Tamil Nadu rainwater harvesting mandate
- Watershed management
- Check dam
- Haryali
- Ralegan Siddhi
- Arvary Pani Sansad