Ground-Water Dams for Rural-Water Supplies in Developing Countries

ABSTRACT

The use of groundp-water dams to store water in regions with arid or tropical climates is a method that has received considerable attention in the last few years. By storing water behind subsurface dams in natural aquifers or in the sand accumulated in sand storage dams, the disadvantages of conventional surface storage, such as high evaporation rates, pollution, siltation, and health hazards, may be avoided. The techniques are very old, but only recently have there been some attempts to make systematic studies and to develop proper siting, design, and construction methods. This paper presents the experience gained from existing structures all over the world and describes the physical setting in which the techniques may be applied. Design and construction alternatives are shown, and case studies from India and Ethiopia are presented. The construction of ground-water dams may be a feasible solution to water-supply problems in many parts of the world if preceded by proper planning and site surveys.