Amit Sharma
Water is a vital component of the biological cycle and is regarded as a balm on the surface of the globe for the continuation of life.The world’s water supplies are sadly running out extremely quickly as a result of human interference with nature, which has led to a lack of life in many areas of the planet. The maintenance of an aquifer’s long-term sustainable supply is therefore crucial in the age of rising temperatures.India is the largest consumer of groundwater in the world, with about 60% of the irrigated area and 85% of rural domestic water supplies dependent on groundwater sources. The primary causes of lowering of groundwater in India include over-extraction, lack of regulation and monitoring, and unsustainable agricultural practices. Jammu and Kashmir, located in the northern part of India, has a significant potential for groundwater resources. The region is characterized by diverse geographical features, including high mountains, valleys, and plains, which influence the availability and distribution of groundwater. The primary sources of groundwater in Jammu and Kashmir are precipitation, snowmelt, and infiltration from rivers and streams. The region receives ample rainfall, especially during the monsoon season, which contributes to the recharge of groundwater aquifers. The snowmelt from the Himalayan ranges also replenishes the groundwater reserves. The potential for groundwater availability varies across different areas of Jammu and Kashmir due to variations in geology, topography, and hydrological conditions. The western parts of the Jammu region generally have better groundwater potential due to the presence of alluvial and fluvial deposits, which are more conducive to groundwater storage and movement. It is important to note that while Jammu and Kashmir have substantial groundwater potential, sustainable management and careful monitoring of groundwater resources are essential to avoid overexploitation and depletion of aquifers. Overextraction of groundwater can lead to adverse consequences such as declining water levels, land subsidence, and degradation of water quality.
The major causes for fluctuations in water level in the Jammu region are Geographical factors: Jammu region is characterized by diverse topography, ranging from plains to hilly areas. The region’s geology and hydrogeology play a significant role in groundwater availability and recharge. While the plains areas may have relatively better groundwater potential, the hilly regions face challenges due to limited recharge areas and steep slopes.
Overextraction: Similar to other parts of India, overextraction of groundwater is a key factor contributing to its depletion in Jammu and Kashmir. Increasing agricultural activities, irrigation needs, industrial development, and domestic water demands have led to excessive groundwater pumping.
Irrigation practices: Agriculture is a significant consumer of groundwater in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the plains areas. Traditional irrigation practices, such as flood irrigation, result in higher water consumption and inefficient water use. Modernizing irrigation techniques and promoting water-efficient practices can help reduce the strain on groundwater resources.
Climate change: Climate change can exacerbate groundwater depletion in Jammu and Kashmir. Changes in precipitation patterns, glacier melting, and increased temperature can impact the region’s water cycle, affecting groundwater recharge rates. Decreased snowfall and melting glaciers, which act as natural reservoirs, may lead to reduced water availability in the long run
As per report, Dynamic groundwater resource assessment for the country for the year 2022, published by Union Minister of Jal Shakti, “the total annual ground water recharge for the entire country is 437.60 billion cubic meters (BCM) and annual ground water extraction for the entire country is 239.16 BCM. In the states of, Delhi, Goa, Kerala, Jammu &Kashmir, Ladakh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, Andaman & Nicobar Island and Chandigarh the ground water extraction for domestic uses is more than 40 %. Groundwater resources of UT of Jammu & Kashmir year 2023, “As compared to the 2020 assessment for Jammu and Kashmir,the Total Annual Groundwater Recharge and Annual Extractable Ground Water Resources have increased from 4.68bcm to 4.9 bcm and 4.22 bcm to 4.44 respectively. The Annual Ground Water Extraction has also increased from 0.89 bcm to 1.07 bcm as shown in figure below”.
The long-term groundwater-level measurement usually requires a dedicated monitoring program for several decades which also exist in Jammu region. There is rise and fall of groundwater in Jammu region due to various factors as mentioned above. As per, Groundwater Year book 2021-22 J&K, published by Central Ground Water Board NWHR, Ministry of Jal Shakti, “In Jammu Region, decline as well as rise is in water levels is observed in all the districts of Jammu Region. Decline is shown in northern and eastern Jammu areas, almost entire Samba, and central and entire northern Kathua district. The minimum rise 0.01 m is shown at Sei Khurd, Garhi in Jammu & Udhampur districts respectively and maximum rise of 3.82 m is shown at Jakhar Udhampur district. Whereas minimum decline of 0.01 m is recorded at Muthi, Bareri in Jammu & Rajouri districts respectively and maximum of 4.11 m is shown at Kangar Jammu district as shown in figure and table below”.
Addressing groundwater fluctuations in Jammu and Kashmir requires a multi-faceted approach, including improved water governance, effective regulation, promotion of efficient irrigation practices, and awareness campaigns. Sustainable management of groundwater resources is crucial for ensuring long-term water security and mitigating the impacts of climate change in the India.
(The author is M.Sc. (Honors) Geology Cluster University of Jammu)
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