Where access to groundwater is limited, [[Rainwater harvesting|rainwater harvesting]] in underground tanks can be an effective and low-cost alternative. Water stored in the wet season can be used in the dry season and lifted from the tank with a [[rope pump]] or with a [[Deep well pump|deep well pump]], which can elevate water up to 30 m.
These tanks can be constructed of concrete blocks. The tanks are partly (1.5 m) build built below the soil surface. These tanks can store up to 20 000 liters of water, used for domestic use, cultivation. ==History and social context==The Brazilian government, with support from organisations such as UNICEF and IRCSA (International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association) started a programme to construct one million rainwater tanks in Brazil.
With regard to the concrete block tanks, 40 community water tanks (supporting a few families each) were implemented successfully. Following this success, another 80 concrete block tanks will be build at household level.
====Estimated Lifespan====
==CostCosts==
Subsurface ferro-cement tanks of 60 m3 costs about US$ 1 900.
==Country experiences==
The Brazilian government, with support from organisations such as UNICEF and IRCSA (International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association) started a programme to construct one million rainwater tanks in Brazil.
==ManualsReference manuals, videos, and links==
This [http://www.enviro-friendly.com/Tankmasta-Underground-Installation.pdf Underground tank installation Manual] by Tankmasta explains all the steps needed to build an underground tank.
==Movies==* Video: [http://emas.blip.tv/ Large collection of EMAS movies on different subjects.] ==External Links==
* General [http://www.rainwaterharvesting.org www.rainwaterharvesting.org ] [http://www.unep.or.jp www.unep.or.jp ] [http://www.rainfoundation.org www.rainfoundation.org ]
* Recharge [http://www.practicafoundation.nl www.practicafoundation.nl ]