New data from the state govt’s Groundwater Surveys and Development Agency (GSDA) shows groundwater levels across the region were 42% lower at the end of Sept than the average recorded for the same month over the previous five years. Nagpur: A deficient monsoon has resulted in groundwater levels across Nagpur division shrinking at an alarming rate, raising fears of an acute drinking water crisis and a bleak rabi season.
Bhandara recorded a 46% decline, with groundwater levels dropping by 0.75 metres to 2.42 metres. Gadchiroli’s water table declined by 0.27 metres, or 16%, to 1.92 metres, while Gondia saw the least impact with a drop of just 0.12 metres, or 6%, to 1.98 metres. Since 1996-97, the GSDA has conducted annual comparisons of rainfall up to the end of Sept and groundwater levels recorded during the first week of Oct against their long-term averages. The exercise, mandated under the Maharashtra Groundwater (Regulation for Drinking Water Purposes) Act, 1993, and its accompanying rules, serves as a key indicator for forecasting drinking water scarcity across the state.
In contrast, the fall was relatively modest in Gadchiroli and Gondia.