Address India's worsening urban groundwater crisis

We require innovative solutions that use technology to prevent its depletion and contamination

- AMIT KAPOOR & MEENAKSHI AJITH

The Annual Groundwater Quality Report 2024 published by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has sparked widespread concern, shining a spotlight on the invisible yet indispensable groundwater resources that sustain nearly half the world's urban population. Alarmingly, the report reveals that 20% of groundwater samples across India contain nitrate levels exceeding the safe limit of 45mg/l, with some districts reporting concentrations of over 40%. States like Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu bear the brunt of this contamination, largely due to excessive fertilizer use and inadequate waste management. Beyond nitrates, fluoride levels surpassed permissible limits in over 9% of the samples, while arsenic contamination remains severe in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Assam and other states. As these pollutants seep into aquifers, the health of millions is at risk, underscoring the urgent need for a paradigm shift in urban water management.