Chennai has been facing an acute water shortage in the past few years. One of the ways to prevent drought is to revive the age-old water tanks that can act as an excellent water storage system. According to a study conducted in 2008, there are 39 temple tanks in Chennai.

The temple tanks of Chennai not only showcase the architectural expertise and aesthetics of their time but is also instrumental in recharging the groundwater. According to historian Nivedita Louis, tanks were an indispensable part of temples and they ensured water management as part of religion and ritual. These tanks were usually dug by benefactors and philanthropists.

Temple tanks which play a key role in maintaining the groundwater table need to be de-silted and maintained regularly. Recently, volunteers belonging to the Central Industrial Security Force cleaned the biggest tank which is situated in Parthasarathy temple in Triplicane. When the rains arrive, the tanks get filled to the brim and offer a spectacular view to the visitors.

Last month, the 600-year-old Arulmigu Ekambareswarar temple tank in Mint Street was de-silted and nine pits were dug in the tank so that rainwater get recharged. According to the temple’s Executive Officer, not a single drop of rainwater from the temple premises gets wasted.

Many volunteers have also joined hands to revive local water bodies and temple tanks in Chennai in an effort to recharge groundwater and prevent salination of water from seawater percolation.

Temple tanks are proof that even centuries ago, people knew the importance of rainwater and the need to store it. Let us continue this tradition with proper rainwater harvesting techniques.