BDA Completes 1,441 Percolation Wells to Recharge Rainwater Across Bengaluru

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has completed the construction of 1,441 rainwater-harvesting percolation wells across 77 parks and residential premises in Bengaluru. The civic initiative is projected to recharge an estimated 18.459 crore litres of rainwater annually, counteracting the effects of rapid urbanisation and extensive concretisation that have hindered natural groundwater infiltration across the city.

The wells were established under the 'One Billion Drops (OBD) – Groundwater Recharge through Percolation Wells' project. Implemented by United Way of Bengaluru in collaboration with the BDA between February 2025 and February 2026, the recharge project is expected to benefit more than 82,300 residents.

Designed as a decentralised network, the wells are planned to capture stormwater runoff and facilitate groundwater recharge while also curbing surface runoff and assisting in flood mitigation. Locations for the wells were selected following geological and GIS-based assessments, with engineers evaluating local recharge potential, runoff patterns, available open space, and maintenance feasibility.

The implementation process encompassed site identification, construction, and quality inspections. Following the completion of the civil works, the structures were handed over to the respective BDA authorities to handle ongoing maintenance.

Alongside the physical infrastructure, the campaign organised nine community awareness programmes across eight schools and one BDA residential community. These outreach sessions engaged 593 students and local residents through interactive water-conservation and groundwater-recharge activities.

The BDA has also introduced GreenBengaluruByBDA.in, a digital monitoring platform dedicated to its greening programmes. The portal provides data on sapling health and upkeep, details opportunities for volunteering and tree planting, hosts educational tours, and manages public inquiries through a designated 'We Heard You' section. Authority officials stated the comprehensive project is intended to bolster the city's long-term water resilience and support environmental goals.