Washim: In a remarkable effort to tackle growing water scarcity crisis in Vidarbha, Wadji village in Risod taluka of Washim district has successfully implemented an advanced Atmospheric Water Generation (AWG) system that produces potable drinking water directly from moisture present in the air. Significantly, Wadji is currently the only village in Maharashtra to adopt this innovative technology. The system is providing residents with access to clean drinking water and has emerged as a sustainable solution to the region’s water challenges.Like many parts of Vidarbha, Risod taluka has been facing increasing difficulties related to water availability. According to Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) reports, nearly 40 villages in the taluka fall under “semi-critical” groundwater category. As temperatures rise during the summer months, access to safe drinking water becomes increasingly difficult for local residents.Recognizing this challenge, Wadji Gram Panchayat took a proactive step by introducing technology capable of generating water from atmospheric humidity. The village, with a population of nearly 2,000, had long struggled with drinking water shortages, forcing residents to travel nearly one to one-and-a-half kilometres to fetch water. The new system has provided significant relief and improved access to safe drinking water.The system, known as Meghdoot, was procured through the support of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (CSIR-IICT), Hyderabad, under the guidance of its then Director, Dr. Chandrasekhar. Installed at Zilla Parishad Primary School and Anganwadi in the village, the unit supplies clean drinking water to villagers, particularly benefiting schoolchildren and contributing to their health and well-being.The unit has the capacity to generate approximately 500 litres of purified water per day.The technology was developed by scientists at CSIR-IICT, Hyderabad. Key contributors to the project include Dr Sridhar, Dr Nivedita Sahu, and team. The innovation was developed through a collaborative effort between CSIR-IICT and Maithri Aquatech.Atmospheric Water Generation technology offers a promising and sustainable solution for water-stressed regions by reducing dependence on groundwater and surface water sources. By adopting this cutting-edge technology at an early stage, the Wadji Gram Panchayat has set an inspiring example for rural communities seeking innovative ways to ensure safe drinking water for their residents. Wider implementation of such systems could play a significant role in mitigating water scarcity challenges across vulnerable regions.How AWG worksAtmospheric Water Generation is an advanced technology that converts moisture present in the air into potable water. The process begins by drawing humid air into the system through fans, where filters remove dust, pollen, and other airborne contaminants. The air is then cooled to its dew point using a refrigeration-based mechanism, causing water vapour to condense into liquid droplets. The collected water is stored and further purified through activated carbon filtration, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, and other processes. Finally, the purified water is stored and made available for consumption.
