Tubewell

Tubewells play a vital role in providing safe and reliable access to water in Bangladesh, a country heavily affected by arsenic-contaminated groundwater. Here we explain the significance of tubewells, their operation, maintenance, and the government's efforts to address the issue of arsenic contamination.

Importance of Tubewells in Bangladesh

Bangladesh faces a severe challenge of arsenic contamination in shallow aquifers, making it unsafe for drinking. Tubewells offer a solution by extracting water from deeper, uncontaminated aquifers, providing communities with a reliable source of safe drinking water.

1. Functioning of Tubewells: Tubewells consist of a pipe, typically made of steel or PVC, drilled deep into the ground using a tubewell rig. A submersible or hand pump is installed inside the pipe, allowing the extraction of groundwater from the underground aquifer. The water is then brought to the surface for use.
2. Ensuring Water Safety: Regular testing of tubewell water for arsenic and other contaminants is essential to ensuring its safety. The Government of Bangladesh, along with NGOs and international organizations, conducts extensive water testing programs. Individuals and communities are encouraged to monitor the quality of their tubewell water and seek guidance on water treatment if necessary.

Features of RFL Tubewells 

RFL tubewells come with a range of features that make them an ideal choice for water extraction:

• Sturdy Construction: RFL tubewells are built using high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
• Efficient Pumping System: They are equipped with efficient submersible or hand pumps, designed to extract groundwater effectively.
• Corrosion Resistance: The tubewell components are resistant to corrosion, making them suitable for long-term use.
• Customizable Depths: RFL tubewells can be drilled to various depths, depending on the water requirements and geological conditions.

Benefits of RFL Tubewells

Choosing RFL tubewells offers several advantages:

• Safe and Clean Water: RFL tubewells extract water from deeper, uncontaminated aquifers, providing access to safe and clean water for drinking and other purposes.
• Reliable Water Supply: RFL tubewells ensure a continuous and reliable water supply, reducing dependence on unreliable or contaminated water sources.
• Cost-Effective: Once installed, RFL tubewells provide a cost-effective water solution, eliminating the need for purchasing water or relying on expensive alternatives.
• Versatile Applications: RFL tubewells cater to various water needs, including domestic use, agriculture, and commercial or industrial applications.
• Low Maintenance: These tubewells require minimal maintenance, reducing the burden of regular upkeep and associated costs.

Tubewell price in Bangladesh

The price of a tubewell can vary depending on several factors, including the brand, depth of drilling, pump type, and additional installation requirements. They can provide you with specific details regarding the cost of tubewell equipment, installation charges, and any additional expenses involved in the process.

Installation Process Tubewell: 

Installing an RFL tubewell is a systematic process that involves the following steps:

• Site Assessment: A qualified technician visits the site to assess the geological conditions, determine the water table depth, and identify the optimal location for tubewell installation.
• Drilling: Using specialized drilling equipment, a borehole is drilled to the desired depth, ensuring access to uncontaminated groundwater sources.
• Tubewell Assembly: After drilling, the tubewell casing and components, including the pump, are carefully installed inside the borehole.
• Pump Connection: The submersible or hand pump is connected to the power supply or manually operated, depending on the chosen system.
• Testing and commissioning: The tubewell is tested to ensure proper functionality, and adjustments are made if required. Once validated, the tubewell is commissioned for regular use

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - Tubewells in Bangladesh

What is a tubewell? 

A tubewell is a type of well that is constructed by drilling a hole into the ground using a tubewell rig. It typically consists of a steel or PVC pipe that allows groundwater to be extracted for various purposes such as drinking water, irrigation, and industrial use.

Why are tubewells important in Bangladesh? 

Tubewells are crucial in Bangladesh due to the widespread presence of arsenic-contaminated groundwater in shallow aquifers. Tubewells help provide access to safer sources of drinking water by extracting groundwater from deeper, arsenic-free aquifers.

Are tubewells the only source of drinking water in Bangladesh? 

No, tubewells are not the only source of drinking water in Bangladesh. Surface water sources such as rivers, ponds, and rainwater harvesting systems are also used. However, tubewells play a significant role in providing a reliable source of safe drinking water to a large portion of the population.

How do tubewells work? 

Tubewells operate using a submersible pump or a hand pump installed inside the pipe. When the pump is activated, it draws water from the underground aquifer and pushes it up to the surface through the pipe, allowing it to be collected for use.

What is the impact of arsenic contamination in tubewells?

In many areas of Bangladesh, shallow aquifers contain naturally occurring arsenic, which can be harmful to human health if consumed over an extended period. Arsenic contamination in tubewells can lead to various health issues, including skin lesions, cancers, and cardiovascular diseases.

How can I ensure the safety of water from a tubewell?

Regular testing of tubewell water for arsenic and other contaminants is crucial to ensuring its safety. The Government of Bangladesh, along with various NGOs and international organizations, conducts widespread testing and provides guidelines for the safe use of tubewells.

Who is responsible for maintaining tubewells? 

The responsibility for maintaining tubewells can vary depending on the context. In rural areas, communities often take collective responsibility for the upkeep of tubewells. In urban areas, the responsibility may lie with the local government or water supply authorities.

Are there any regulations regarding tubewell installation in Bangladesh? 

Yes, the Government of Bangladesh has regulations in place for tubewell installation. These regulations specify the depth at which tubewells should be drilled to ensure access to arsenic-free water. Additionally, they outline guidelines for the construction and maintenance of tubewells.

What are the alternative sources of drinking water in arsenic-affected areas? 

In areas heavily affected by arsenic contamination, alternative sources of drinking water include rainwater harvesting systems, deep tube wells, and piped water supply systems. These alternatives help mitigate the risk of arsenic exposure and ensure access to safe drinking water.

How is the government addressing the issue of arsenic-contaminated tubewells? 

The Government of Bangladesh, in collaboration with international organizations and NGOs, has been actively addressing the issue of arsenic-contaminated tubewells. They conduct extensive testing, provide training on tubewell installation and maintenance, and promote awareness about the risks associated with arsenic exposure.