Gujarat and its neighbouring states have historically valued water and water conservation highly. This trait is apparent in the simple yet effective rainwater harvesting system that is integrated with traditional architecture and with elaborate social spaces such as the Vavs (stepwells). Seeking inspiration from these age-old concepts of Gujarat, the campus planners at IITGN proposed several underground rainwater harvesting tanks, with a symbolic structure above them called Jal Mandaps.
The mandaps will also form nodes for social spaces at the institute, paving a nice way to celebrate water while conserving it. There are currently four such Jal Mandaps nearing completion. These will be fully-operational during this rainy season and are expected to offset a significant portion of our water requirements.
