Mumbai: The number of wells surveyed in the state which reported a decline in groundwater is 47.8 % higher than in 2015, which was also a drought year. This is an indication of the extent of water stress in the state owing to the major rainfall deficit this year.
The state is facing among its most widespread droughts this year, with 85% of its talukas affected. Data presented in the state cabinet on Wednesday showed that 2,246 observation wells had reported groundwater depletion in 2015. The number has risen to 3,321 this year. This is a rise of 1,075, which the Groundwater Survey and Development Agency (GSDA) termed significant.
Observation wells are selected in different regions in the state to track groundwater levels. In regions dependent on rainfall, groundwater is a key source of drinking and irrigation water.
Ten of the state’s 36 districts have reported a rain deficit of over 40% compared to the norm, the latest data after the retreat of the monsoon shows. Solapur in Western Maharashtra reported the highest rain deficit of 53% followed by Nandurbar in North Maharashtra, where the deficit is 51.3%, and Latur in Marathwada, where the shortfall is 51.2%. You Can Also Check: Gold Rate in Mumbai | Silver Rate in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai | Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Petrol Price in Mumbai | Diesel Price in Mumbai | CNG Price in Mumbai | LPG Price in Mumbai