Punjab : The water scarcity crisis has reached a critical juncture due to the rapid depletion of groundwater levels across the state. Out of the 23 districts, eight are experiencing extremely severe water shortages, while nine others have reached a critical state of groundwater depletion. According to a recent report by the Central Ground Water Board, the state has approximately 17 billion cubic meters of groundwater available, yet the current rate of water exploitation stands at 28 billion cubic meters.
The situation is particularly dire in Sangrur, the district of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, where groundwater levels have plummeted by more than 44 meters. This alarming decline reflects a broader trend affecting several key districts including Patiala, Pathankot, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Ropar, Kapurthala, Tarn Taran, and Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar. In these areas, groundwater levels have dropped between 28 to 43 meters, indicating severe stress on water resources.
The Central Ground Water Board’s data reveals that approximately 78 percent of Punjab’s land area is now classified as a dark zone, where groundwater levels are critically low and unsustainable. This alarming statistic underscores the severity of the water crisis and highlights the urgent need for comprehensive water management strategies.
Agricultural practices, particularly the extensive cultivation of paddy, are cited as major contributors to the water depletion problem. Paddy cultivation is highly water-intensive, and its prevalence has exacerbated the strain on Punjab’s groundwater resources. Experts have raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of current agricultural practices, calling for a shift towards more water-efficient crops and practices.
The ongoing water scarcity crisis poses significant challenges for both agriculture and daily life in Punjab. The depletion of groundwater levels has far-reaching implications for food security, economic stability, and the well-being of communities. Addressing the crisis will require a multifaceted approach, including improved water management, sustainable agricultural practices, and increased public awareness about water conservation.
The state government is under pressure to implement effective measures to combat groundwater depletion and ensure the availability of water for future generations. This includes exploring alternative water sources, investing in water recharge projects, and promoting the use of water-saving technologies in agriculture.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, the need for immediate and decisive action becomes increasingly urgent. The response to this crisis will be crucial in determining Punjab’s ability to navigate the challenges of water scarcity and secure a sustainable future for its residents.
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