This project was a product of the MISTI- INDIA independent research grant and was completed using QGIS. I used a combination of data available from geotagged locations by the 'Maharashtra stepwell campaign' open source dashboard, natural spring locations from 'Aquifer management report' by ACWADAM and open street map data on existing reservoirs, rivers, lakes and streams within the Pune district region.
On overlaying this historica and existing data I found that traditional water holding structures constructed centuries ago, were strategically placed on water recharge zones identified very recently in aquifer reports. This points to the ability of stepwells, temple tanks to not only capture rainwater, create cultural value, but also recharge shallow aquifers.
