Question

Give an account of the structure of the traditional water harvesting system in Tamil Nadu. 

Answer 1

1. Eris is temple ponds found in Tamil Nadu. These are traditional structures built to harvest rainwater.
2. They have embankments on three sides and one side is left open for water to flow in.
3. Water is fed into the Eris from its catchment area by the feeder channel and by reinforcing the bund by growing trees on it.
4. It differs from the traditional rainwater harvesting structures as it has a temple at its centre which is known as Neerzahi Mandapam and the deities are placed in it on special days for worship which might be an annual affair.