10/06/2026
*An Agenda For The Nation*
*जल जीवन मिशन*
Rose garden should have a huge underground water reservoir, by storing water from N Choe and nearby storm water lanes, passing through and near the rose garden area, just like an under ground water reservoirs at Ridge Shimla and Hanging gardens, Mumbai.
It can work as a natural rain harvesting system as well as to meet the needs of nearby sectors.
Technically it is possible, and the idea is much more practical than many people initially think. Of course, it would require a detailed hydrological, geotechnical, and urban planning study before implementation.
*Why Rose Garden is a Suitable Location*
Rose Garden covers about 30 acres and is located in the central sectors of Chandigarh.
A large underground reservoir beneath portions of the garden could:
1. Capture monsoon runoff from N-Choe and surrounding stormwater drains.
2. Store excess rainwater underground instead of allowing it to flow away.
3. Supply non-potable water for parks, horticulture, road washing, and landscaping.
4. Recharge groundwater through controlled percolation zones.
5. Provide emergency water reserves during drought years.
6. Preserve the garden and its appearance because the reservoir would be underground.
*Some comparable examples include:*
* *The Ridge Shimla* – a large underground water storage structure beneath the public grounds.
* *Hanging Gardens Mumbai*
* – gardens built above municipal water reservoirs.
* Many cities in Europe and Singapore use underground stormwater detention reservoirs beneath parks.
Potential Chandigarh Model
A concept could be:
* Divert monsoon flows from N-Choe through sedimentation ponds.
* Remove silt and debris.
* Store water in a reinforced underground reservoir.
* Capacity could range from 50 million to 200 million litres (5–20 crore litres) depending on the area utilized.
* Water could then be treated and supplied to nearby sectors such as Sectors 15, 16, 17, 22, and adjoining green belts.
Major Advantages
✅ Reduced urban flooding during heavy rains.
✅ Groundwater recharge.
✅ Reduced dependence on Bhakra water.
✅ Water availability for parks and horticulture.
✅ Potential tourist and educational attraction showcasing Chandigarh’s sustainability leadership.
Cost will possibly be ₹200 to 300 crore depending on capacity).
We only need to take care of N-Choe water carrying silt during monsoon, requiring desilting infrastructure.
Rather, Instead of only Rose Garden, Chandigarh could develop a *Central Water Bank Project* as a showcase to the nation.
* Underground reservoir beneath Rose Garden.
* Smaller underground reservoirs beneath large parks in Sectors 10, 23, and 35.
* Integration with Sukhna catchment stormwater systems.
* Smart recharge wells around the city.
This could potentially store hundreds of millions of litres of monsoon water annually, significantly improving Chandigarh’s water security.
A preliminary feasibility study by organizations such as Central Ground Water Board, CSIR-Central Building Research Institute, and the Chandigarh Administration would be the logical first step before estimating capacity and costs.
