Community-built underground reservoirs

Community-built underground reservoirs can store harvested rainwater very effectively; it remains ice cold and although the official position is that the harvest from the heavenlies is not potable, our experience is that it remains pristine.

There are some provisos though. Primarily the gutters, the sump and the reservoir itself must be cleaned thoroughly annually.

A caretaker for the reservoir

The reservoir must be secured and should not be open to the general public; children and animals can drown. A responsible person appointed by the community should care for the maintenance and apportion out the water.

Building these reservoirs provides work for the unemployed

The cost of an underground reservoir

Half the cost of the reservoir is roughly for materials and the rest for labour.

The base is made of reinforced concrete onto which a double-brick wall is built; and then plastered. Heavy gauge galvanised wire helps to secure the circular structure.

Treated poles covered with IBR sheeting complete the domed roof.

The estimated cost of a 40kL underground reservoir is about R50,000 in 2025. Fibreglassing whilst recommended to prevent all leaks is expensive.

For a wealthier community the construction workers would be paid. In a poorer society with high unemployment, an arrangement can be made that the builders would be recompensed with water and vegetables from the food garden. It becomes a project based on faith and trust for the greater good; much to be gained with nothing more potentially lost than the sweat off the crafter's brow.

The 4 phases of building

1. The hole can be dug by hand by 4 strong men in less than a week depending on the structure of the earth. Shale, large rocks and other obstacles may be encountered.
   
2. The slab, double wall and plastering can be built in another week.
3. The roof can be erected in a couple days.
   
4. Trenches have to be dug to bring sewerage 110ug conduit from the gutters and downpipes to the reservoir.
   
5. A skilled supervisor cum engineer, competent bricklayers and skilled plasterers are essential.
   

Most brick reservoirs leak unless fibreglassed

The community has to buy into this project

Most South Africans have become accustomed to spending long hours waiting and queuing for water of uncertain quality. Community-built underground reservoirs would solve many of their troubles.

For a community that can clearly see the benefits of clean water for their homes in the immediate area, a large vegetable garden to supply their creche and local school children with bellies filled with healthy food, the benefits are enormous; these people have endured severe shortages.

During the rainy season large amounts of free, pristine water would be available to the community; during the dry season most would be retained for the vegetable gardens and the creche.

Solar-powered electric pumps are an option.

Community-built underground reservoirs

Community-built underground reservoirs can store harvested rainwater; to supply homes and gardens dependent on irrigation in the dry season.

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