The groundwater department has issued notices to over 61 residential societies in Ghaziabad for operating unauthorized borewells, giving them 30 days to submit compliance reports. Triggered by complaints, the investigation revealed illegal water extraction practices in societies like Shipra Suncity and ATS Advantage, amid a 7-meter drop in groundwater levels. Many residents cite unreliable Ganga water supply as the reason for borewell dependency. Hydrologists stress the need for stricter NOC regulations, while locals demand improved water management. With urbanization driving water scarcity, the situation highlights the pressing need for sustainable solutions and collaboration among authorities, builders, and communities.
The groundwater department has taken action against over 61 residential societies in Ghaziabad for operating unauthorised borewells. These societies have been given 30 days to submit a comprehensive report regarding their water extraction practices. This decision comes after a complaint highlighted that around 76 societies in the area are allegedly tapping into groundwater without the necessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs).
Srishti Jaiswal, an assistant geophysicist at the groundwater department, explained that the investigation was initiated after receiving a letter from a concerned citizen.She noted that the investigation revealed a number of societies operating borewells without the necessary permissions. Some of the societies named in the notices include Shipra Suncity, Windsor Nova, and ATS Advantage. Jaiswal pointed out that the lack of information about who installed these borewells and how long they have been operational is concerning, as residents appear unaware of the need to secure NOCs from the state since regulations changed in 2021.
The issue of unauthorised borewells is compounded by the water supply challenges faced by residents. Some residents? welfare associations (RWAs) have reached out to the groundwater department, explaining their reliance on borewells due to interruptions in Ganga water supply.A representative from one of the affected societies explained that every year, Ganga water is unavailable for about two months for cleaning, leaving them without a reliable water source. This situation has led many residents to feel they have no choice but to drill borewells to meet their water needs.
In areas like Raj Nagar Extension, residents express frustration with the local authorities. Deepanshu Mittal, a local resident, expressed frustration that the Ghaziabad Development Authority (GDA) sold the land to builders, leaving residents to manage their basic necessities on their own. This sentiment is echoed by others who report that while some areas receive Ganga water, it is often insufficient to meet their daily requirements. Residents argue that the focus should not only be on obtaining NOCs but also on addressing the broader issue of rapidly depleting groundwater levels in the region.
The groundwater department's recent report indicates a concerning trend: groundwater levels in Ghaziabad have been declining significantly, with a drop of about 7 meters recorded between pre- and post-monsoon seasons. This decline raises alarms about the sustainability of water resources in the area, especially as urbanization continues to increase demand for water.
As the groundwater department continues its investigation, the situation highlights the urgent need for improved water management strategies in Ghaziabad. Residents are calling for better communication and cooperation between local authorities, builders, and the community to ensure a sustainable water supply for all. The ongoing challenges faced by these societies reflect a broader issue of water scarcity that many urban areas are grappling with, making it essential for stakeholders to work together toward effective solutions.
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