Site Selection to Community Handover: Effective Recharge Shaft Development for Rural Water Security in Shetphal, Maharashtra

Groundwater depletion and seasonal water scarcity pose significant challenges to rural public water supply systems, especially in hard rock terrains like Shetphal Village, Mohol Taluka, Solapur District, Maharashtra. This study documents the comprehensive process of strengthening the village’s public water source through the implementation of a recharge shaft, emphasizing the journey from scientific site selection to construction, monitoring, and formal handover to the local Gram Panchayat. Utilizing hydrogeological surveys, geophysical investigations, and community consultations, a suitable site was identified to maximize recharge efficiency. The recharge shaft was designed and constructed following best practices tailored to hard rock conditions, incorporating features such as silt traps and casing to ensure functionality and longevity. Post-monsoon groundwater monitoring demonstrated a measurable rise in water levels and improved availability, highlighting the technical success of the intervention. The active involvement of the Gram Panchayat and community in maintenance and ownership proved critical for sustainability. This case study provides valuable insights and a replicable model for rural water supply enhancement in similar drought-prone and geologically challenging regions, contributing to the broader goals of groundwater sustainability and rural water security.