Recently, the issue of groundwater depletion in India has gained attention, particularly due to a recent study that marks the alarming rate of water loss in urbanised regions. The study, published in the Hydrogeology Journal, reveals that northern and northwestern India have experienced a staggering depletion of approximately 64.6 billion cubic metres of groundwater over the last two decades. This depletion is closely linked to rapid urbanisation and industrialisation, raising concerns about the sustainability of water resources in these regions.
About Groundwater Depletion
Groundwater depletion occurs when water is extracted from aquifers faster than it can be replenished. This phenomenon is exacerbated by factors such as increased urbanisation, industrial demands, and changes in agricultural practices. The study utilises data from various sources, including the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) and the India Meteorological Department, to analyse trends and patterns in groundwater levels across India.
Key Hotspots of Depletion
The study identifies five critical hotspots where groundwater depletion is most severe: 1. Punjab and Haryana: These states have seen the highest levels of depletion, with urban areas like Faridabad and Gurgaon experiencing drops in groundwater levels due to industrialisation and urban expansion. 2. Uttar Pradesh: While irrigation demand has decreased, domestic and industrial water use has surged, leading to overall groundwater depletion. 3. West Bengal: Similar to Uttar Pradesh, the state has witnessed minimal growth in irrigation demand, whereas domestic and industrial consumption has increased, contributing to groundwater loss. 4. Chhattisgarh: Increased domestic and industrial water use has been identified as the primary cause of groundwater depletion in this state. 5. Kerala: Despite receiving substantial rainfall, Kerala has experienced an important decline in groundwater availability, attributed to rising domestic and industrial demands.
Impact of Urbanisation and Industrialisation
Urbanisation has a profound impact on groundwater resources. In Punjab and Haryana, the urban population grew by 10% between 2001 and 2011, coinciding with a boom in industrial activity. This shift has resulted in a marked decline in groundwater levels, even as rainfall patterns remained stable. The correlation between increased industrialisation and groundwater depletion is evident, emphasising the need for sustainable urban planning.
Government Initiatives and Solutions
In response to the crisis, the Government of India has initiated groundwater recharge projects aimed at restoring water levels. While some positive outcomes have been reported, challenges remain, particularly in urban areas where natural recharge mechanisms are often disrupted. Experts suggest that restoring wetlands in cities could enhance groundwater reserves and mitigate land subsidence.
Future Directions
To address groundwater depletion effectively, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. This includes promoting efficient water use in agriculture, implementing stricter regulations on industrial water consumption, and enhancing urban planning to incorporate natural water recharge systems. Collaboration between government, industry, and communities is vital to ensure sustainable water management practices.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the primary causes of groundwater depletion in India and its socio-economic implications.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of current government initiatives aimed at groundwater recharge.
- Analyse the relationship between urbanisation and groundwater depletion in northern India.
- What measures can be taken to promote sustainable water management practices in urban areas?
- Examine the role of industrialisation in groundwater depletion across different state of Indias.
