The Environmental Sustainability Club, Department of Civil Engineering, Integral University organized an outreach extension activity titled “Rainwater Harvesting and Groundwater Recharge Awareness Programme” on 22nd January 2026 at New Vision Inter College and Pt. Santoshi Lal Shukla Memorial Inter College, Mahmudabad. The programme aimed to create awareness among school students regarding water conservation practices, rainwater harvesting techniques, and the importance of groundwater recharge in addressing the growing challenge of water scarcity.
The extension activity commenced at New Vision Inter College with an introductory session focusing on the current water crisis and the urgent need for sustainable conservation practices. Resource persons explained the concept, benefits, and practical applications of rainwater harvesting using charts, diagrams, and real-life examples. Various techniques including rooftop rainwater harvesting systems, recharge pits, percolation tanks, and recharge wells were demonstrated in a simple and interactive manner, enabling students to understand their practical implementation in schools and residential areas.
An interactive discussion session was also conducted in which students actively participated by asking questions and sharing their views on water conservation and sustainable environmental practices. The session encouraged participants to adopt water-saving habits in their daily lives and spread awareness within their communities.
The programme further continued at Pt. Santoshi Lal Shukla Memorial Inter College, where the Principal and organizing committee warmly welcomed the team from the Department of Civil Engineering. Dr. Ammar Rizvi, former Acting Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, was present during the event and appreciated the efforts of the Department in promoting awareness about rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.
During the awareness session, Mr. Mohd Asim highlighted the Government of Uttar Pradesh’s water conservation initiatives, particularly the “Catch the Rain 2025” campaign undertaken by the Jal Shakti Department. Participants were informed about the government’s initiative to install rooftop rainwater harvesting systems in government and semi-government buildings across the state as part of long-term groundwater recharge and sustainable water management strategies. The session also emphasized the importance of policy measures mandating rainwater harvesting systems in larger buildings to strengthen water security and environmental sustainability.
The programme significantly enhanced participants’ understanding of sustainable water management practices and motivated students to contribute towards environmental conservation. A total of 125 participants, including 120 students from both institutions, attended the programme. The activity was successfully coordinated by Mr. Mohd Asim and Mr. Faraz Hasan Qadri, Assistant Professors, Department of Civil Engineering, under the guidance and support of Prof. Syed Aqeel Ahmad, Head of the Department of Civil Engineering.
The extension activity aligned with Sustainable Development Goals including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 4 (Quality Education). The programme concluded successfully with enthusiastic participation and reaffirmed the importance of community engagement and environmental awareness initiatives in promoting sustainable development.