Rajasthan’s Groundwater Levels Surge After Heavy Rainfall

This year’s monsoon in Rajasthan has brought rainfall, revitalising the state’s groundwater levels. The Rajasthan Groundwater Department’s Post-Monsoon Assessment Report 2024 indicates an average groundwater rise of approximately six metres across all districts. Prior to the monsoon, groundwater was at an average depth of 28.83 metres. Following the rains, this depth has improved to 23.01 metres. The report provides district-level data and suggests further analysis will yield vital information about groundwater changes across various zones.

Rainfall Statistics

Recently, 27 of Rajasthan’s 50 districts experienced abnormal rainfall. This is defined as receiving 60% or more than the average of 417.46 mm. Excessive rainfall was recorded in 15 districts, while eight districts received average rainfall. Notably, Churu was the only district to see a decrease in groundwater levels despite the overall trend of increase.

District-Level Groundwater Changes

Chittorgarh recorded the highest groundwater increase, rising by 14 metres. Other notable increases include Sawai Madhopur (13.32 metres), Bundi (11.50 metres), and Bhilwara (10.89 metres). In contrast, Churu’s groundwater fell by 0.19 metres. The capital city, Jaipur, saw a rise of 4.70 metres. The Chief Engineer of the Rajasthan Groundwater Department has confirmed that these figures are preliminary and further analysis is required.

Rainfall in Desert Regions

Western Rajasthan, typically arid, also received abnormal rainfall. Jaisalmer experienced a decline in groundwater levels, dropping by 2.50 metres, while Barmer and Bikaner saw slight increases. Jalore, which received average rainfall, recorded a groundwater rise of 2.31 metres. The state overall experienced a 63% increase in rainfall from June 1 to October 1.

Groundwater Crisis Context

Rajasthan faces a severe groundwater crisis. Of the 299 groundwater blocks, only 38 are considered safe. The remaining blocks are categorised as critical, semi-critical, or overexploited. Groundwater extraction has surged by 114% over the last 30 years. In 2023, extraction reached 149%, a stark rise from 35% in 1984. This marks the urgent need for sustainable water management.

Health Implications of Groundwater Quality

Groundwater is the primary source of drinking water in Rajasthan, especially in rural areas. Poor groundwater quality leads to health issues due to increased harmful minerals. Fluoride contamination affects 95 villages, impacting around four million people. Improved groundwater levels could enhance water quality, reducing health risks and healthcare costs for families.

Economic Impact

Access to clean drinking water is crucial for public health and economic stability. Improved groundwater levels can lead to reduced health-related expenses, allowing families to save more and enhance their overall prosperity. This positive change is essential for the socio-economic development of the region.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of groundwater depletion on rural health in Rajasthan.
2. What are the major causes of groundwater depletion in India? Comment on the potential solutions.
3. Explain the significance of sustainable water management practices in arid regions like Rajasthan.
4. What are the implications of groundwater contamination on public health? Provide suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of groundwater depletion on rural health in Rajasthan.

1. Groundwater is the primary source of drinking water in rural Rajasthan, affecting access to safe water.
2. Depletion leads to increased concentrations of harmful minerals, resulting in health issues like fluorosis.
3. Unsafe water contributes to 80% of illnesses, straining healthcare systems and family finances.
4. Improved groundwater levels can enhance water quality, reducing health risks and healthcare costs.
5. Communities with poor water access face economic challenges, limiting their development and prosperity.

2. What are the major causes of groundwater depletion in India? Comment on the potential solutions.

1. Excessive extraction for agriculture, industry, and urban use leads to depletion.
2. Inadequate recharge due to urbanization and deforestation limits natural groundwater replenishment.
3. Poor water management practices exacerbate the crisis, particularly in arid regions like Rajasthan.
4. Potential solutions include rainwater harvesting, sustainable agricultural practices, and improved irrigation techniques.
5. Government policies promoting conservation and community awareness can also help mitigate depletion.

3. Explain the significance of sustainable water management practices in arid regions like Rajasthan.

1. Sustainable practices ensure long-term availability of water resources, critical for arid regions.
2. Improved management can enhance groundwater recharge rates, restoring depleted aquifers.
3. It supports agricultural productivity, which is vital for the economy and food security.
4. Effective water management reduces the risk of water-related conflicts among communities.
5. Awareness and education on sustainable practices can encourage community involvement and commitment.

4. What are the implications of groundwater contamination on public health? Provide suitable examples.

1. Contaminated groundwater can lead to serious health issues, including waterborne diseases and chronic conditions.
2. Fluoride contamination affects millions, causing fluorosis, particularly in Rajasthan’s rural areas.
3. Increased levels of heavy metals and salinity make water unsafe, leading to long-term health risks.
4. Health implications strain public health systems and increase economic burdens on families.
5. Examples include high fluorosis rates in specific villages, illustrating the urgent need for clean water access.