Punjab is expanding its network of Underground Stormwater Storage Tanks (UGSTs) across major urban centers to tackle flooding during heavy monsoon rains while conserving valuable water resources.
The large underground tanks are designed to capture millions of gallons of rainwater, helping reduce water accumulation in low-lying and flood-prone areas. By temporarily storing stormwater underground, the system can ease pressure on urban drainage networks during intense rainfall.
The initiative also focuses on water conservation. Instead of allowing rainwater to simply flow away, stored water can be reused for horticulture and other suitable purposes. Some of the collected water can also be directed toward aquifer recharge systems, helping replenish groundwater reserves that are declining in many areas.
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The expansion of UGST infrastructure represents a two-in-one approach: reducing urban flood risks while turning excess rainwater into a valuable resource.
As Punjab faces increasingly challenging monsoon conditions and growing pressure on groundwater supplies, such infrastructure could play an important role in building more climate-resilient cities.
