considering that groundwater levels are rapidly declining in Chennai, the launch of the 'rain centre' on August 21, 2002, comes as a timely initiative. The centre is a permanent exhibition that highlights the potential of rainwater harvesting in urban areas.
It is a joint endeavour of New Delhi-based non-governmental organisation (ngo) Centre for Science and Environment (cse) and Akash Ganga Trust, a Chennai-based citizens' action group to promote rainwater harvesting.
The rain centre depicts different aspects and techniques of traditional and modern rainwater harvesting systems through panels and posters, a live rainwater harvesting model and films reflecting the myriad moods of rain. While inaugurating the centre, Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa said, "Involving local people in the process of rainwater harvesting is significant, and spreading awareness about this concept should be our priority." During the public meeting, Sunita Narain, director, cse, said, "Almost all cities and towns in India are facing a severe water crisis today. The increasing dependence on groundwater in Chennai leaves us with only one solution -- to revive our age-old Indian tradition of water management."
A background paper -- 'Managing Water in Chennai' -- and a cd rom containing comprehensive information on rainwater harvesting were also released at the event.
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