What are masonry reservoirs used in rural water supplies called?

Masonry reservoirs used in rural water supplies are referred to as cisterns. Cisterns are designed to collect and store rainwater or other types of water, providing a reliable source for drinking and irrigation, especially in areas where conventional plumbing may be lacking. They are typically constructed from durable materials such as brick or concrete, which helps in maintaining water quality and temperature, and they can serve both residential and agricultural needs.

Cisterns play a critical role in water conservation and management in rural settings, often being the primary means of water storage where aquifer sources are limited. Their design allows for minimal evaporation, and they can be easily integrated into a landscape, making them practical for various environments. This emphasizes their importance in rural water supply systems, especially in regions with intermittent rainfall.

In contrast, water towers generally serve a different purpose, as they are elevated structures designed to provide pressure and gravity-fed distribution of water rather than being reservoirs for storage. Reservoirs can encompass a broader category of water storage, often consisting of larger bodies of water, while retention basins are specifically built to manage stormwater runoff, not intended for general water supply.