Gurgaon ground report: Save the Aravallis, revive water bodies to conserve water table

The gap between demand and supply of water is expected to jump from 34% to 57% in the years to come as between 2005 and 2014, a drop of 74% in the water table has been noted, explained the panellists

During a discussion held on Thursday to set up a framework for sustainable development, environmentalists at the Gurugram Environment Conclave stressed on the unchecked use of groundwater due to which the water table is falling at an alarming rate of one to three metres every year.

Even though the situation is grim, the solutions are not far away. The residents of the city can start by saving the Aravallis, which act as groundwater recharge zones. (HT Photo)

On this occasion, a report was released by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) and Gurgaon First, a city-based NGO. The report highlighted the challenges faced by Gurgaon and the sustainability action goals which can help in the city’s sustainable growth.

The gap between demand and supply of water is expected to jump from 34% to 57% in the years to come as between 2005 and 2014, a drop of 74% in the water table has been noted, explained the panellists. The CSE report also mentioned that even though there is a ban on use of groundwater and freshwater for construction, it is yet to be implemented in the city.

Even though the situation is grim, the solutions are not far away. The residents of the city can start by saving the Aravallis, which act as groundwater recharge zones.

In a study conducted by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), it was found that in several blocks of Gurgaon, 300% over-extraction of groundwater takes place.

“The CGWA had warned that once the water table reaches 200 metre below ground level, only rocks will be left,” said Anumita Roychowdhury, executive director - research and advocacy and head of the air pollution and clean transportation programme, CSE.