Par panel pitches for expansion of aquifer mapping

Concerned over "fast depleting" groundwater levels, a Parliamentary committee today pitched for expansion of aquifer mapping from the present 16 states to throughout the country as it has "great potential" to better the water management.
The committee on Water Resources ministry also recommended using the latest technology for the purpose.
"Given that the groundwater levels in many parts of the country are fast depleting, the committee sees a great potential in aquifer mapping as an effective plan component for addressing the depressing ground water scenario in the country," the committee said in its ninth report presented to Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha today.

It also recommended to the government to "fully utilise" Rs 328.38 crore budgetary allocations made for 'Ground Water Management and Regulation' scheme during 2016-17.
The panel expressed the hope that the government will make "earnest" efforts to achieve about three lakh sq km for aquifer mapping envisaged during the on-going fiscal year.
Taking note of the Water Resources ministry's submission that there is "inadequacy" of funds for aquifer mapping, the committee urged government to make available "sufficient" funds, ranging from Rs 700 crore to Rs 800 crore, annually for completing the programme within three years.
The project was mooted to delineate aquifer disposition and their characterisation along with quantification and for preparation of aquifer/area specific ground water management plans.