It’s undeniably concerning to see cracked buildings and the ‘sinking’ landscape in various parts of India, such as Joshimath, Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi. The underlying cause, as identified by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), is excessive groundwater extraction.
Unpacking Land Subsidence
Land subsidence refers to the gradual sinking of the Earth’s surface, usually due to compaction of underground soil, rock, or other materials. This occurs when supportive structures beneath the land like aquifers, underground mines are depleted, or certain geological processes occur. This can damage infrastructure, disrupt water flow in agricultural areas, and even increase the risk of coastal flooding.
Groundwater Extraction and Land Subsidence: CGWB Findings
The role of groundwater extraction in causing land subsidence came under scrutiny after mining operations resulted in soil settlement. Recent advances in technology like satellite-based ground movement analysis have linked building deformities and land subsidence to rampant groundwater withdrawal. Case in point, the National Capital Region sank an average of 15 mm per year from 2011-2017 due to this issue.
The Status of Groundwater Extraction in India
At present, 85% of rural and 50% of urban populations rely on groundwater, making India the world’s largest groundwater consumer. Alarming levels of groundwater exploitation have been reported in the northwest region of India primarily due to its heavy dependency on groundwater for agriculture.
Problems Associated with Groundwater Depletion
Unregulated pumping, preference to water-intensive crops, saline water intrusion, and ecological impacts are some of the key issues associated with the depletion of groundwater. Governments’ provision of free or heavily subsidized power for groundwater irrigation has stimulated overexploitation, while the minimum support price for wheat and rice has encouraged the cultivation of these water-intensive crops.
Government Initiatives for Groundwater Conservation
Several government initiatives have been launched to address groundwater depletion. These include Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, Jal Shakti Abhiyan- Catch the Rain Campaign, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT).
A Path Forward
Promoting crop diversification, enhancing irrigation efficiency, managing river catchments, leveraging technology for real-time groundwater level monitoring, and encouraging wastewater recycling and reuse are some ways forward.
Previous Year UPSC Civil Services Examination Questions
UPSC Prelims asked questions about an ancient town renowned for its elaborate water harvesting system and ‘Water Credit’, a mechanism that allows poor communities to meet their water needs independently. Whereas, UPSC Mains focused on features of the Government’s Jal Shakti Abhiyan initiative and methods to improve water storage and irrigation systems.
This comprehensive exploration of groundwater extraction in India, its implications for land subsidence, and potential solutions underscores the urgency of addressing this critical issue.