Centre Takes Strong Measures to Curb Groundwater Misuse, Issues Notices to Industries and Infrastructure Hubs
In an effort to prevent the misuse of groundwater, the central government has recently issued notices to industries, infrastructure hubs, and power stations, requesting a list of groundwater users from District Collectors. The Central Ground-Water Board had previously issued a circular urging all groundwater users to register their water usage, but the response was disappointing, with few complying. In response, the Board has taken decisive action by sending notices to various sectors and requesting an explanation for non-registration. Additionally, letters have been sent to Collectors of all districts in the region to provide a comprehensive list of groundwater users.
Recognizing the critical need for groundwater conservation, the central government has identified 19 states and Union Territories, including Maharashtra, where measures must be taken to regulate groundwater withdrawal. The Central Groundwater Authority oversees this regulation, and last year, it issued notices to a wide range of groundwater users, including industries, the National Highway Authority of India, infrastructure projects, power stations, and residential complexes. Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises were also notified. However, the response to these notices fell short of expectations.
To ensure compliance, penalties will be imposed on those who fail to register and obtain no-objection certificates for their groundwater usage. Some industries and infrastructure units claim that they have not received any notices, raising questions about whether the notices were correctly addressed. Despite limited resources, the Central Groundwater Board is actively monitoring the entire state and making every effort to enforce regulations. The Board levies charges based on water consumption, exempting up to 25 cubic meters. For usage between 25 and 200 cubic meters, a charge of one rupee per cubic meter applies, while usage exceeding 200 cubic meters incurs a charge of Rs 2 per cubic meter. All groundwater users are required to install metered wells and borewells.
The issuance of notices to industries, infrastructure hubs, and power stations underscores the central government's commitment to sustainable groundwater management. By urging compliance with registration requirements, authorities aim to curb the misuse of this vital resource. It is crucial for all stakeholders to participate actively in preserving groundwater reserves, and strict enforcement measures will ensure that responsible usage becomes the norm. Through these collective efforts, the central government aims to safeguard India's groundwater reserves for the well-being of present and future generations.
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