The Causes and Solutions of Declining Groundwater Levels, Know on Khetivyapar

Water isn't just crucial for humans but also for animals, plants, and trees. Life on Earth is unimaginable without it. Water forms the cornerstone of the entire ecosystem. Without water, all biochemical processes within our bodies would grind to a halt. Could we ever have envisioned a future where water is sold in bottles if we ceased extracting it? Today, water scarcity has morphed into a global issue that transcends national and continental boundaries. Groundwater stands out as a pivotal natural resource. Currently, numerous countries, India included, are grappling with water scarcity challenges. India presently harbors 17 percent of the global population. March 22nd marks World Water Day. 

The International Water Management Institute predicts that water scarcity will burgeon into a significant problem in the future. Presently, humanity finds itself ensnared in a severe crisis due to plummeting groundwater levels. The scarcity of water directly impacts the growth and development of plants, animals, and all living beings. In India, around 95 percent of sorghum and millet, and approximately 90 percent of coarse grains, are cultivated in rainfed regions. Furthermore, 91 percent of pulses and 85 percent of sesame are also cultivated in such areas. Access to clean water is indispensable for maintaining good health. Irrigation poses a major challenge for agriculture. Forty-five percent of the country's agricultural land is irrigated, relying on groundwater. Approximately 55 percent of India's total 143 million hectares of agricultural land falls under rainfed and dryland farming.

The decreasing groundwater level poses a grave concern for all forms of life. Over recent decades, our reliance on groundwater for industries, agriculture, developmental projects, and various other purposes has steadily increased. Consequently, rapid depletion of groundwater levels is underway due to excessive extraction. The United Nations, in its annual World Water Development Report, has warned that by 2030, the world may confront a water crisis due to deficiencies in water management and solutions. Presently, urbanization, modernization, industrialization, and agricultural mechanization are exerting pressure on groundwater. Additionally, global warming leads to increased evaporation from the soil surface and transpiration from plants, further impacting groundwater levels. A significant cause of declining groundwater levels is the continuous decrease in rainfall and snowfall, with most precipitation lost through runoff.

The Ramifications of Diminishing Groundwater Levels:

The rapid depletion of groundwater levels results in various issues such as wells drying up, water supply problems, irrigation challenges, water contamination, and increased costs of installing pumping sets. Currently, more than 60 million people in the country lack access to clean drinking water. This persistent issue, even after 77 years of independence, is a cause for concern. The decline in groundwater levels adversely affects land productivity and crop yields. Excessive irrigation not only leads to water wastage but also deteriorates soil health. Farmers are distressed by the diminishing water levels on earth. Moreover, the reduction in groundwater levels is causing an escalation in the concentration of harmful elements such as arsenic, cadmium, fluoride, nickel, and chromium in many regions.

Utilization of Wastewater in Various Industries and Agriculture:

In countries like Israel, where resources are limited, 62 percent of the total water is treated wastewater. This treated water should be utilized in developmental projects and industrial activities. Additionally, it should be employed for irrigating agricultural crops and ornamental plants. The utilization of treated wastewater in developmental projects and agriculture can ensure the efficient use of water resources. In urban areas, where the availability of polluted water is higher, it is imperative to recycle treated water for irrigation purposes. In India, where 90 percent of water is allocated for agriculture, Israel effectively employs treated or saline water for agricultural use following purification.

Quantity of Elements in Polluted Water: Polluted water contains higher concentrations of essential nutrients for plants. It includes abundant micronutrients, along with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, compared to groundwater or canal water.

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Rising Contamination of Groundwater: Currently, groundwater is facing significant pollution. Major contributors to this issue include household and industrial waste, radioactive substances, and harmful petroleum elements. Harmful bacteria and viruses found in sewage, coupled with heavy metals such as chromium, lead, and mercury, are drastically impacting groundwater quality. Consumption of polluted water leads to the spread of various diseases. The escalating use of agricultural chemicals in irrigation systems and farming is resulting in issues like declining soil fertility and reduced crop yields.

Measures for Groundwater Conservation: In today's era, the entire nation is grappling with the issue of scarce clean drinking water. There are several measures that can aid in water conservation. Through this, rainwater can be preserved in ponds. In regions with limited water availability, drip irrigation techniques should be embraced. This method enhances the yield and quality of vegetables, fruits, and flowers. Cultivation of plants with desert plant genes that require minimal water should be encouraged. Advanced agricultural machinery like laser levelers should be utilized for efficient irrigation, thereby contributing to water conservation.