We are in process of building rigorous economic models for domestic rainwater harvesting based on the pilot experience. Once built, it is expected the models will guide formulation of public policy for rainwater harvesting; comparison of rainwater harvesting with other schemes, for example, trucking or transporting water; and designing sustainable social enterprises.

At the highest level, Aakash Ganga acquires rainwater harvesting rights from home owners for a fee or subsidy. The rainwater is channeled through gutters and pipes to underground long-life storage facilities. Part of the water is used to generate revenue and rest is supplied to the community for a fee.

The model will factor into:

1. Rate differential between the urban and rural water supplies.
2. Conversion of annual expenditure into infrastructural investment
3. View Aakash Ganga as an electric utility that supplies power to meet peak demand
4. Migration of population from villages to cities
5. Socially equitable distribution of water
6. Maximizing revenue generation per liter of the harvested rainwater

In one sense Aakash Ganga is a “water grid” into which a home owner deposits water. The deposited water is supplied back to meet the community demand.