Groundwater depletion in Punjab and Haryana has reached critical levels, impacting both urban and rural areas. The unsustainable extraction of water for various purposes has led to declining water levels, posing a significant threat to water resources in the region. The central government's Atal Bhujal Yojana aims to manage water demand and promote sustainable groundwater management in water-stressed areas. However, proactive measures from the respective state governments are essential to effectively tackle groundwater depletion and ensure the conservation of this precious resource.
Groundwater depletion is a critical issue affecting both urban and rural areas in Punjab and Haryana. The unsustainable extraction of water for commercial, residential, and other purposes has led to a rapid decline in water levels, posing a severe threat to water resources in the region. While the problem demands immediate attention and sustainable water management practices, the respective state governments have done little to address it, increasing the risk of a water crisis.
The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) collected water level data in May 2023 and compared it with the average levels from the past decade (2013-2022) for the same month. The results revealed a significant worsening of the situation in Punjab, where the rate of replenishment is lower than extraction.
Among the five districts in Punjab, namely Patiala, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Amritsar, and Mohali, most of the examined wells showed lower water levels compared to the decade's average for the same month. Specifically, the water levels went down by 0-2 meters in 24 wells, 2-4 meters in 10 wells, and more than 4 meters in 8 wells. On the other hand, an increase of 0-2 meters was recorded in 16 wells, 2-4 meters in 3 wells, and more than 4 meters in 1 well.
Haryana, the neighbouring state, is also grappling with groundwater depletion. Out of the 53 wells examined in Ambala, Yamunanagar, and Faridabad, 22 wells (41.50%) showed a decline in water levels. The drop in water levels was observed between 0-2 meters in 15 wells, 2-4 meters in 3 wells, and above 4 meters in 4 wells.
The Ministry of Jal Shakti informed the Lok Sabha that declining groundwater levels in urban areas are a result of continuous withdrawal due to increased demand for freshwater. Factors such as changing rainfall patterns, population growth, industrialization, and urbanization contribute to this escalating demand. As water is a state subject, the onus of effectively managing groundwater and implementing sustainable measures falls on the respective state governments. However, the central government has also initiated steps to address the issue.
One of the central government's initiatives is the Atal Bhujal Yojana, aimed at managing water demand through scientific methods, involving local communities at the village level. The scheme targets water-stressed areas, including Haryana, to promote sustainable groundwater management. While the central government plays a supporting role, it remains crucial for the state governments to take proactive measures to tackle groundwater depletion effectively.
In light of the alarming situation, urgent action is required to enforce sustainable water management practices. The government must encourage the adoption of rainwater harvesting and promote efficient water usage across sectors. Awareness campaigns and educational programs can empower communities to conserve water and protect this invaluable resource for future generations.
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