As many as 87% or 3,321 of the 3,816 observation wells surveyed in the state have reported a fall in the groundwater level, TOI found. In 29% or 964 wells, the drop is severe – of more than 3 metres. Mumbai: The rainfall deficit in Maharashtra has not only caused widespread drought in the state, it has led to a sharp fall in groundwater levels, pointing to a looming water crisis.
A total of 14.7% or 491 of the wells reported a 2-3 m decline in groundwater. And in 25.1% or 834 wells, the drop is 1-2 m. In 31% or 1,032 wells, the fall is up to one m. The state has already made a scarcity plan and imposed a 10% water cut,” said water supply secretary Parag Jain Nainutia.
“If groundwater levels have dropped to this extent, it shows again that the Jalyukt Shivar scheme has been a total failure,” he said. “This year we have had to do a lot of planning on the conservation and use of water. However, Purandare is critical of the state’s flagship water conservation scheme, the Jalyukt Shivar Yojana. 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
The data, recorded till Sept end by the Groundwater Surveys and Development Agency, was presented in the cabinet sub-committee on the drought on Tuesday.