Chandrapur Groundwater Levels Drop 1.25 Metres Amid Rainfall Shortage
Chandrapur district faces a significant decline in groundwater levels due to below-normal rainfall, raising concerns for the upcoming agricultural seasons.
Groundwater levels in Chandrapur fell by 1.25 metres this September.
12 out of 15 talukas declared drought-affected due to rainfall deficit.
Authorities urge judicious water use to mitigate future shortages.
Chandrapur district is experiencing a troubling decline in groundwater levels, with recent assessments indicating an average drop of 1.25 metres due to insufficient rainfall. This situation has raised alarms regarding water availability for both the rabi season and the upcoming summer, as the region grapples with a significant rainfall deficit.
The Groundwater Surveys and Development Agency (GSDA) regularly monitors 134 observation wells across the district, conducting assessments four times a year. Their latest findings reveal a decline of approximately one metre in the talukas of Nagbhid, Korpana, and Jiwti, while other areas such as Chandrapur, Ballarpur, and Gondpipri have reported drops ranging from one to two metres. Overall, groundwater levels across all 58 watershed areas in the district have decreased by one to three metres, with 165 villages potentially facing water scarcity.
The rainfall deficit has had immediate repercussions, particularly in urban areas. During the summer months, the Chandrapur Municipal Corporation operated around 150 water tankers to meet demand, and approximately 80 tankers continue to serve certain localities daily. The district, which typically receives an average annual rainfall of 1,040 mm, recorded only 723.70 mm during the monsoon season, resulting in a shortfall of 316.40 mm or 30.4% below the expected average.
The impact on agriculture has been severe, with the state government declaring 12 of the district's 15 talukas as drought-affected. The affected areas include Chandrapur, Bhadravati, and Gondpipri, among others. Crop-loss assessments are currently underway, and relief measures for farmers will be initiated following the submission of these reports. The district collector, Vasumana Pant, has instructed all talukas to formulate water supply plans in advance, considering both available resources and projected demand.
Looking ahead, the administration is focusing on water conservation and efficient usage to ensure adequate supplies through the summer and until the next monsoon. The emphasis on contingency measures is crucial as the district prepares for potential challenges in water availability in the coming months.
