Telangana: In a development that could raise alarms among water conservationists and state officials, Telangana’s groundwater levels have dropped to double digits in metres this May, a stark contrast to the single-digit figures observed over the past three years. This worrying trend highlights the pressing need for immediate and effective water management strategies.
In May 2024, groundwater levels in Telangana were recorded at 10.3 metres, a significant drop from the 8.7 metres noted in May 2023. This decline mirrors the levels observed in May 2020 when the groundwater had plummeted to 11.2 metres. The situation is particularly dire in Vikarabad district, where groundwater levels have fallen below 16.4 metres this May, compared to 13.1 metres in the previous year. Such depths indicate a necessity for deeper drilling to access water, complicating the already challenging scenario.
Senior officials have expressed grave concerns over this trend, emphasizing the need for stringent implementation of groundwater recharge measures. “Permission to dig borewells is conditional upon the establishment of recharge structures like water conservation pits during the rainy season. Unfortunately, compliance is often neglected. Implementing these measures is crucial to meet the escalating water demands of agriculture, households, and businesses,” an official stated.
The depletion in groundwater levels is also attributed to inadequate desilting practices. Historical data reveals that groundwater levels were at 9 metres in May 2022 and 9.1 metres in May 2021. The situation was even more critical in May 2016 when levels fell to 15 metres. This May, Hyderabad reported relatively better groundwater levels at 9.4 metres. Only two districts, Warangal and Wanaparthy, were near the desired groundwater level of 5 metres, recording levels of 6.1 metres and 7.5 metres, respectively.
Experts are keenly awaiting the assessment of groundwater levels in June, following recent rainfall, which will be conducted in the first week of July. The data from this assessment will be pivotal in guiding future water management and conservation efforts in the state. The current scenario underscores the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to water conservation, including strict enforcement of recharge measures and improved desilting processes. As Telangana grapples with this groundwater crisis, the focus must shift towards sustainable practices that ensure the long-term availability and quality of this vital resource.
