India’s fast depleting groundwater may spell doom for the coming generations. Importing drinking water could become reality! We may have to survive on imported water by 2050. Due to exploitation of groundwater, the water table may reduce to 3,120 litres per day a person 34 years from now. The daily per capita groundwater availability in the country has come down to 5,120 litres, about 35% of the 14,180 litres in 1951. It is projected that by 2025 the availability will be just 25% of the base year. The groundwater is the source for more than 85% of rural domestic water requirements, 50% of urban water requirements & 50% of irrigation requirements of the country. Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) said that though rapid development & versatile groundwater contributed to overall economic development but also result in fast water depletion. The present exploitation rate could results in reduction to 22% by 2050, warned CGWB.

Water Resources & River Development Secretary, Shashi Shekhar said that before situation could get worse, there must be planning & law for water management. Fund will be provided for drip irrigation & penalty for water wastage will be charged. He further added that framework of Model Law will be prepared within 15 days & afterward will be presented in front of government.

The news is a wake up call for us. We must evoke now, watchful regarding water preservation & must use water sensibly.