Water Wells - Need to monitor groundwater in India

We can manage only what we measure.

India is the world's largest user of extracted groundwater. Groundwater contributes to nearly 62% to irrigation, 85% to rural water supply, and 50% to urban water supply in India. A report in 2012 from GOI states that the estimated number of wells and bore wells in India is now around twenty-seven million, with bore wells accounting for more than 50 percent. There is a steady increase in the share of groundwater in irrigation over every decade, and rapid urbanization has caused an unprecedented number of borewells to be dug while the water level drops. Increased groundwater extraction to meet the needs of the growing population has raised concerns about exploitation of the resources. Scientific management of the country’s groundwater resources requires accurate assessment to ensure sustainability.

Most wells in India are privately owned, with no regulation or quality checks in place. With the water tables falling across the country, it is imperative that we measure the recharge and extraction and ensure the quality of water if used for consumption and agriculture. Wells for public consumption are monitored but automated monitoring is not in place in most cases. Various checks are needed to ensure the recharge and reuse of the wells and to ensure the water is fit for consumption.

• Recharge of the wells - Aquifer recharges mainly depend on rainfall. Accurate rainfall data is important in the wake of climate change and associated risks of floods and droughts. Rainwater gauges can accurately measure the rainfall in the region, giving an accurate value of water that can be extracted for further use. With rainfall data, measures can be taken to address any change in the hydrological situation in the area as well as implementing other recharge methods if necessary.
• Extraction Data - The extracted water needs to be measured to ensure sustainability and optimal use. Water meters can send real time data and users can assess the water usage for various purposes.
• Quality Assurance - Monitoring and assuring water quality at the well is very important to prevent contamination. With pollutants, like fertilizer and pesticides associated with the agricultural use of water, contaminated water sources can have lasting consequences for crops, livestock and people.
• Energy Efficiency -Pumping, storage and purification of water from wells require significant energy. Monitoring Water usage and energy usage can ensure efficient energy use.

Open wells and bore or tube wells are a mainstay in rural and to an extant urban water distribution system. It is time we managed it judiciously whether privately owned or public to ensure a water-stress-free future.