Kalyani Charitable Trust’s
Late G. N. Sapkal College of Engineering,Nashik
Department of Applied Science
. ROLL NO. NAME
1135 KIRAN KAVATKAR
1173 BHARAT YADAV
1174 DAYANAND YADAV
1175 UTKARSH SHINDE
1176 VAIBHAV SHINDE
Introduction to Stepwells
• Stepwells, also known as Baolis or Vavs, are
traditional water storage systems in India.
• Designed as multi-level structures with steps
leading down to the water.
• Served not only as water sources but also as social,
cultural, and climatic hubs.
• Flourished between the 7th and 19th centuries,
especially in arid regions.
Notable Examples of Stepwells
• Rani Ki Vav (Gujarat): A UNESCO World Heritage
Site, known for intricate carvings and deep design for
water storage.
• Agrasen Ki Baoli (Delhi): A historical stepwell in
the heart of Delhi, showcasing traditional architecture
and water management.
• Both examples show how water architecture was
integrated with art, science, and community utility.
Ancient Engineering & Purpose
• Rainwater harvesting: Collected monsoon rain
efficiently.
• Water storage: Provided water for domestic use,
irrigation, and livestock.
• Groundwater recharge: Seepage helped replenish
underground aquifers.
• Climate control: Deep structure maintained cooler
temperatures, offering relief during hot summers.
• Public gathering space: Functioned as a community
space for rituals, rest, and social interaction.
Urban Water Challenges Today
•Water scarcity: Many cities face seasonal or
chronic water shortages.
•Flooding: Poor drainage and lack of water
absorption areas cause urban flooding.
•Depleting groundwater: Overuse and lack of
recharge have led to falling water tables.
•Heat islands: Dense construction and lack of
greenery trap heat, making cities hotter.
Modern Applications of Stepwell Concepts
• Inspiration for urban rainwater harvesting systems:
• Incorporate stepwell-style storage in buildings, parks, and
transit systems.
• Underground reservoirs in cities:
• Can store excess rainwater during monsoons and prevent
floods.
• Help recharge groundwater and supply water during dry
periods.
• Metro stations & public infrastructure:
• Use underground space for water storage and cooling.
Sustainability Benefits
• Reduces Urban Flooding:
• Captures stormwater and prevents overflow in
drainage systems.
• Improves Groundwater Levels:
• Controls Urban Temperature:
• Underground storage and open designs help lower
surrounding temperatures.
• Promotes Water Self-sufficiency:
• Local water harvesting reduces dependency on
external sources.
Relevance to Smart Cities
• Blends traditional wisdom with modern innovation.
• Stepwells as heritage-inspired green infrastructure.
• Encourages sustainable urban planning and resource
management.
• Supports the vision of smart cities being resilient, self-
sufficient, and eco-conscious.
Conclusion – Ancient Wisdom for a
Modern World
• Stepwells are more than monuments—they are
functional, eco-friendly solutions.
• Modern architecture must reintegrate ancient
principles to solve today’s water crisis.
• Reviving and reimagining stepwell principles can
make our cities smarter, cooler, and more
sustainable.
THANK YOU
