Karnal’s groundwater level dipped 11 feet in 10 years

By-Amit Kumar
KARNAL: The groundwater level in Karnal, which is known as the rice bowl, has been declining at an alarming rate. The district witnessed a fall of more than 11 feet (3.48 meter) in its water table over the last 10 years, according to the report of irrigation department’s groundwater cell.
As per the data, the district’s water level was 16.98 meter in June 2012 which dipped to 20.43m in 2022.
Experts believes that water extraction is several times more than recharge. Besides, Illegal ground water extraction and little action is another big reason behind it.
Source said that the government has spent crore to set up rain water harvesting systems. But due to poor upkeep, around 70 percent of warter harvesting systmes are choked with mud, grass and garbage.
The report reveals that Assandh block record highest depletion as its table has dipped to 27.68 meter in 2022 from 18.66m in 2012.
Meanwhile, Nissing block water table stood at 27.50m which was 20.27m in 2012. In Nilokheri bock, it was reached at 28.38m from 20.31m in the last 10 years.
The water table has fallen from 15.98m to 19.68m in Munak, 22.12m to 23.34m in Gharaunda, 15.36 m to 16.19m in Karnal block.
The level in Indri was reported less fall as it has reached at 12.49m from 12.16m. The Kunjpura block recorded a significant improvement in water table. The table reached 10.39m from 10.95m.
Yamuna river, which flows in these blocks, is stated to be the reason behind the improvement of ground water table in two blocks.
Karnal groundwater cell technical officer Mahavir Singh said, “The depleting groundwater level is a matter of concern. Several steps are being taken by the government to improve it. I also appeal to the people to stop wastage of water and conserve it for future use. Besides, farmers should opt the direct seeded rice technique as it consumed less water as compared to the traditional method of paddy cultivation.”
He urged the head of institutions, where rain water harvesting systems have been install, to take care them.