Gujarat’s Groundwater Extraction Rises 1.75% In A Year, Water Crisis Concerns Grow
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Gujarat is witnessing a worrying rise in groundwater extraction, with the proportion of groundwater being extracted increasing by 1.75 percentage points in just one year, according to the figures cited in the report.
Government data shows that 54.21% of groundwater was extracted in Gujarat in 2024, which increased to 55.95% in 2025.
Groundwater Extraction Continues To Rise
The increase has raised concerns over the sustainability of the state's groundwater resources. The figures indicate growing dependence on groundwater despite concerns over declining water levels in several parts of Gujarat.
North Gujarat, particularly districts such as Banaskantha and Patan, has been facing declining groundwater levels. The report also raises concerns over the presence of fluoride and other contaminants in groundwater in some areas.
173 Of 636 Wells Recorded Very Low Water Levels
A survey conducted before the 2025 monsoon examined groundwater levels in 636 wells across Gujarat.
Of these, 173 wells were found to have very low water levels, highlighting the extent of groundwater depletion even before the monsoon season began.
The findings have raised concerns over the availability of groundwater in the coming years, particularly if extraction continues at the current rate.
Concerns Over Atal Bhujal Yojana
The report also raises questions over the effectiveness of the Atal Bhujal Yojana, under which significant funds have been spent to improve groundwater levels and promote sustainable water management.
Despite these efforts, the report claims that groundwater levels have not shown the expected improvement in several areas.
Experts Warn Of Future Water Stress
Experts have expressed concern that continued uncontrolled groundwater extraction could worsen Gujarat’s water situation.
The report warns that if groundwater use is not regulated and conservation measures are strengthened, several districts could face serious water shortages in the coming years.
