The Greater Noida authority is poised to implement a significant regulatory change aimed at safeguarding the region’s groundwater resources. In a move that could reshape the construction landscape, the authority is considering a ban on deep excavation for basements in new buildings. The decision comes in response to mounting concerns over the detrimental impact of excessive groundwater extraction, exacerbated by the prevalent practice of building multi-level basements.
This initiative follows a formal request from the Gautam Budh Nagar district magistrate, who highlighted the widespread dewatering activities undertaken by developers. These activities, often necessary for constructing deep basements, have resulted in substantial groundwater depletion. The magistrate’s concerns were echoed by environmentalists and residents, who have raised alarms over the long-term environmental consequences.
Officials from the Greater Noida authority indicated that the upcoming board meeting would address these concerns by proposing amendments to the existing building by-laws. The new regulations would encourage developers to opt for stilt parking instead of deep basements. This alternative would not only minimise groundwater extraction but also offer a sustainable solution for meeting parking and structural requirements. The proposed changes are timely, given the city’s geographical context. Situated between the Hindon and Yamuna rivers, Greater Noida faces unique hydro-geological challenges. The process of dewatering — removing groundwater to prepare construction sites — has been particularly intensive, leading to a sharp decline in the water table. This practice, coupled with the city’s rapid urbanisation, poses a serious threat to groundwater sustainability.
The Greater Noida authority is also considering additional measures to curb groundwater extraction. These include mandating the use of treated wastewater for construction activities and prohibiting new water connections for such purposes. Violators, particularly those found using borewells for groundwater extraction, could face severe penalties, including the sealing of borewells. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) had already set a precedent by banning the extraction of groundwater by private entities for construction purposes, following a petition by Greater Noida-based environmentalist Vikrant Tongad. The tribunal’s ruling underscores the critical need for stringent regulatory oversight in managing water resources.
Environmentalists have welcomed the proposed ban, emphasising the irreversible damage that deep basement constructions can inflict on the groundwater reserves. They advocate for immediate action and urge the Greater Noida authority to amend the building by-laws to prevent further degradation of the water table. As the Greater Noida authority moves towards finalising these regulations, the focus remains on balancing urban development with environmental conservation. The anticipated amendments to the building by-laws could set a precedent for other rapidly urbanising regions, underscoring the importance of sustainable construction practices in preserving natural resources.
