Delhi-NCR Ground Water Level Falling Rapidly: Domestic Use Accounts for 71.88% Extraction in Capital

Minister of State for Jal Shakti, Raj Bhushan Chaudhary, has informed the Lok Sabha about the alarming rate of groundwater depletion in Delhi-NCR. According to official data provided by the Central Ground Water Authority, domestic use is the primary reason for this decline, accounting for 71.88 percent of the total extraction in Delhi. This usage includes high-rise apartments and group housing societies that rely heavily on borewells. The water table in the capital is reportedly falling by 2 to 4 meters every year, creating a significant challenge for the future water security of the region.

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Groundwater Extraction and Quality Data in NCR

The extraction of groundwater is not limited to Delhi, though the capital remains the most affected area. In surrounding NCR cities, the domestic extraction figures vary significantly. For instance, Ghaziabad recorded 15.62 percent, Faridabad at 18.6 percent, and Gurgaon at 11.81 percent. The situation is critical because nearly 99.1 percent of Delhi’s available groundwater was already extracted by 2023. Beyond the quantity, the quality of water is also a major concern for residents.

Strict Rules for Borewells and Water Harvesting

To curb the illegal extraction of water, the government has implemented several mandatory guidelines. All buildings constructed on plots of 100 square meters or more must have functional rainwater harvesting systems. Additionally, any residential or industrial unit extracting groundwater is required to obtain a No Objection Certificate from the CGWA. Authorities have been directed to seal illegal borewells within one month of receiving a complaint. Furthermore, it is now compulsory to install digital water flow meters at all extraction points to monitor usage accurately. Water tankers must also be registered and equipped with GPS for tracking.