The latest signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Ministry of Jal Shakti and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research–National Geophysical Research Institute, which focuses on the application of advanced heliborne geophysical survey and other scientific research under the Aquifer Mapping Programme, has caused a stir. This agreement seeks to utilize geophysical data to understand Earth’s surface and subsurface physical properties. It will aid in the discovery of natural resources such as hydrocarbons, minerals, aggregate, and groundwater mapping, among others.
Exploring the Objectives of the Study
The primary aim is to generate high-resolution aquifer mapping with the use of heliborne geophysical surveys. This includes pinpointing locations for artificial recharge. The Heliborne geophysical survey’s main benefits are speed, a high-density data output, precision, and cost-effectiveness.
Subsequently, the study will also focus on creating 3D geophysical models and geophysical thematic maps at both horizontal and vertical levels. These findings will help to ascertain the geometry of the principal aquifer, enabling clear identification of de-saturated and saturated aquifers.
Aquifers and Paleochannels
Aquifers, the rocks where groundwater is stored, are typically comprised of materials like gravel, sand, sandstone or limestone. An aspect of this study will involve the spatial and depth-wise distribution of the paleochannel network and its connection with the aquifer system. A paleochannel is a residue of an inactive river or stream channel that younger sediment has filled or buried.
Groundwater Withdrawal and Conservation
This study aims to highlight suitable locations for groundwater withdrawal and water conservation through artificial or managed aquifer recharge. Utilizing this method, data related to groundwater can be collected swiftly, facilitating effective groundwater management. This could lead to improvements in water levels in water-stressed regions.
India’s Relationship with Groundwater
India, being the world’s largest groundwater user, draws around 253 billion cubic meters of groundwater every year, which amounts to approximately 25% of global groundwater extraction. Out of a total of 6584 assessment units, 1034 are labeled ‘Over-exploited,’ 253 as ‘Critical,’ 681 as ‘Semi-Critical’ and 4520 as ‘Safe.’
Water Crisis in India
As per the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) report published by the NITI Aayog in 2018, 21 major Indian cities are projected to reach zero groundwater levels by 2020, impacting 100 million people. Notably, India’s water demand is expected to double the available supply by 2030.
National Aquifer Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM)
Implemented by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), NAQUIM aims to map aquifers, characterize them and develop Aquifer Management Plans. It was initiated as part of the Ground Water Management and Regulation Scheme to outline and characterize the aquifers and to develop the plans for groundwater management.
About the Central Ground Water Board
The National Apex Agency, Central Ground Water Board, which is a subordinate office of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, is entrusted with providing scientific inputs for groundwater resources management, exploration, monitoring, assessment, augmentation and regulation in the country.
CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute
Established in 1961, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI) is a geoscientific research organization. Located in Hyderabad, it now contributes to this significant agreement.