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News18
7 days ago
- General
- News18
What world can learn from Korea's 15th-century rain gauge
Seoul, Aug 5 (The Conversation) Droughts and floods are becoming more frequent and more severe across the globe. The cause is often rain — either too little or too much. The monsoon regions of the world, where societies have weathered cycles of drought and deluge for thousands of years, hold essential lessons about rainwater monitoring and conservation. In Korea, one such lesson dates back to the 15th century. In 1441, during the reign of King Sejong, Korea established the world's first official rain gauge (cheugugi) — a cylindrical copper instrument — and also created a state-administered rain monitoring network. This wasn't just a technical invention; it was part of a wider policy. On September 3 of that year, according to the Annals of the Choson Dynasty (a UNESCO Memory of the World record), local magistrates across the country were ordered to measure rainfall regularly and report it to the central government. This system represented one of the earliest forms of climate data governance and set a precedent for valuing rain as a measurable, manageable and fairly governed resource — a public good to be shared and respected. It also reflected a philosophical tradition in Korea of respecting rain not as a curse, but as a gift — one that must be understood, welcomed and shared. India too has a rich tradition of rainwater harvesting, spanning from the Vedic period and the Indus–Sarasvati Valley civilisation (3,000–1,500BC) to the 19th century. Throughout diverse ecological zones, Indian communities developed decentralised systems to capture and store rainwater. The archaeological site of Dholavira in Gujarat, for example, featured sophisticated reservoirs designed to collect monsoon runoff. Historical records, including ancient inscriptions, temple documents and folk traditions, indicate that these systems were not only engineered but also governed, with established rules for sharing, maintaining and investing in water as a communal resource. In some regions of India, every third house had its well. Although these practices declined during colonial rule, they are now being revived by local communities, government initiatives, and non-governmental organisations. The revival of traditional wells is gaining momentum, particularly in urban areas facing water scarcity. For example, in the city of Bengaluru in southern India, local communities and organisations are using age-old well-digging techniques to tap into shallow aquifers. These efforts are often supported by the state or central government, as well as specialists and organisations, including the Biome Environmental Trust, Aga Khan Trust for Culture, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage, and the Centre for Science and Environment. India's current prime minister has also launched a campaign called Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain as part of a nationwide effort to restore and promote community-led rainwater harvesting. Reviving ancient wisdom In Korea, there's also been a resurgence of this ancient wisdom in modern contexts. Although urban initiatives like the Star City rainwater management system show promise, the movement towards reviving old practices like rainwater harvesting is still growing. Meanwhile, in Cambodia, the Rain School Initiative empowers students and teachers to manage rainwater for drinking and climate education. Rainwater is not just a technical solution — it is a cultural key to resilience. It offers autonomy, sustainability and hope. That is why we propose to establish UN Rain Day on September 3, in recognition of Korea's historical contribution and in celebration of global rain literacy. It is a symbolic date that reminds us how rain has shaped civilisations and how it can shape our future — if only we choose to listen to the wisdom of water. Designating international days has proven effective in raising awareness and catalysing global action. For instance, World Water Day (March 22) has spurred international cooperation and policymaking on water issues since its establishment in 1993. World Toilet Day (November 19) has elevated the global conversation around sanitation and public health. A UN Rain Day would spotlight rain as a vital yet often overlooked resource. This is something that's especially crucial for climate adaptation in monsoon regions and beyond. (The Conversation) SKS GSP (This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed - PTI) view comments First Published: August 05, 2025, 11:15 IST News agency-feeds What world can learn from Korea's 15th-century rain gauge Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Hindu
30-04-2025
- General
- The Hindu
Shallow aquifer tech revives water supply for village in Bengaluru
A rejuvenated recharge well drawing from a shallow aquifer at Gollahalli village in Bengaluru has significantly eased water scarcity during the blistering summer. Drawing water from depths of 15 to 100 feet, the well serves as an alternative to borewells, mitigating the pressure on groundwater sources. The rejuvenation was implemented under the Central Government's AMRUT 2.0 scheme, with Biome Environmental Trust, a non-profit organisation, playing a pivotal role. 'One of the wells, which is over 50 years old, was filled with garbage,' recalled Neelima Ramesh, a social worker at Biome. Her team revived the well within a year, making it operational by 2024. The recharge well replenishes every 48 hours, ensuring supply once every two days. Renuka, a poura karmika and resident, has become a local hero and is called 'Water Woman', as she manages the daily operations, running the motor from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Her efforts ensure water reaches over 50 homes, shops, a temple, and a public toilet near Avalahalli lake. Support from local corporator K. Somashekar, who provided pipes and motors, helped the initiative. Kavita, a resident of the village, said, 'Earlier, borewell water was not sufficient to cater to the daily needs of the locals. Now we use this water for daily chores.' With a 5 MLD Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) under construction and plans to revive two more wells, the future of water supply in Gollahalli village looks increasingly secure.
