Words Vikas Parasram Meshram
NEW DELHI (India CSR): Groundwater is a vital source of drinking water, agriculture, and industrial use in India. A significant portion of the country’s water needs is met through groundwater. However, over the past few decades, there has been a drastic decline in both groundwater levels and its quality. The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) recently released an annual report expressing grave concerns about groundwater quality. Groundwater pollution is having a detrimental impact on public health and the environment, with hazardous substances like nitrate, uranium, and fluoride posing serious health risks.
Groundwater Pollution and Nitrate Levels
One of the biggest concerns in groundwater pollution is the increasing nitrate levels. According to the report, in 2017, nitrate levels were dangerously high in 359 districts, which increased to 440 districts by 2023. More than half of India’s 779 districts have nitrate levels exceeding the safe limit of 45 mg per liter. Nitrate contamination primarily results from chemical fertilizers and organic waste. Intensive farming practices and uncontrolled fertilizer use have significantly increased nitrate levels in groundwater.
Health Consequences of Nitrate Contamination
Excessive nitrate levels have severe health consequences, particularly for infants, who are at risk of developing a condition known as “blue baby syndrome.” Nitrate-contaminated water reduces hemoglobin’s ability to carry oxygen in the blood, a condition known as methemoglobinemia, leading to symptoms like fatigue, breathlessness, and other severe complications.
Environmental Impact of Nitrate Pollution
Nitrate pollution affects not only human health but also the environment. When nitrate reaches surface water bodies like lakes, rivers, and ponds, it leads to contamination and disrupts aquatic ecosystems. Excessive nitrate causes the overgrowth of algae, reducing oxygen levels in water bodies, which results in the death of aquatic animals and destabilizes ecosystems.
Groundwater Pollution in Affected States
Punjab and Rajasthan are among the worst-affected states in terms of groundwater pollution. In Punjab, 30% of the groundwater samples showed uranium levels exceeding the safe limit. Uranium contamination poses serious health risks, including cancer, kidney diseases, and bone disorders. The rising number of cancer cases in Punjab has led to the infamous “Cancer Train,” which transports patients from Punjab to Rajasthan for treatment.Punjab’s groundwater usage is heavily driven by agriculture, particularly paddy cultivation, which requires significant water resources. However, rice is not a staple part of the local diet in Punjab. Farmers grow paddy mainly due to the Minimum Support Price (MSP) offered by the government. This intensive water usage has led to a decline in water levels and the contamination of groundwater with hazardous substances.In Rajasthan and Gujarat, groundwater samples show fluoride levels exceeding permissible limits, which causes bone disorders. Fluoride contamination is also a significant issue in states like Haryana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh.
Causes of Groundwater Pollution and Depletion
The primary causes of groundwater pollution and depletion are intensive agriculture, excessive groundwater extraction, and failure to replenish rainwater. Proper rainwater harvesting can help improve groundwater levels and reduce the presence of harmful substances. Data shows that groundwater quality improves after the monsoon season, emphasizing the importance of rainwater harvesting and recharge policies.
The continuous deterioration of groundwater quality has been further aggravated by climate change. Erratic rainfall patterns, droughts, and floods have intensified the water crisis in different parts of the country.
Need for Reformed Water Management Policies
The government needs to rethink its water management policies. Farmers should be encouraged to grow crops that require less water and offer higher returns. Educating farmers on efficient water usage is crucial. Diversifying crop patterns and promoting organic farming can also help reduce groundwater pollution.Strict measures are needed to control groundwater usage. Policies offering free irrigation facilities should be reconsidered, as they often lead to water misuse, causing long-term environmental damage. Responsible and planned usage of water resources is essential.
Groundwater Monitoring and Pollution Levels
The Central Ground Water Board collected samples from groundwater monitoring sites across the country. Out of 15,259 samples, 19.8% did not meet the prescribed standards. Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu reported the highest levels of nitrate pollution.Despite the challenges, there are some positive developments. Around 73% of the country’s groundwater blocks are classified as “safe,” indicating that groundwater extraction is balanced with natural recharge. However, stronger measures are required to control pollution and ensure sustainable use.Addressing the groundwater crisis requires coordinated efforts from the government, NGOs, and society at large. Public awareness campaigns about the importance of water conservation and preventing water pollution are essential.
Before the water crisis worsens, it is crucial for governments, civil society, and individuals to come together and take action. Sustainable groundwater management is the need of the hour. The government must implement effective policies to reduce groundwater overuse and pollution.
About the Author
Vikas Parasram Meshram is a social worker and activities working towards the rights of tribal and marginalized communities.
(India CSR)
