What actions is NGT taking regarding groundwater management in Lucknow?
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Synopsis
The NGT has taken decisive steps to address the alarming drop in Lucknow's groundwater levels, having plummeted by 160 feet in a decade. This request for a status report on the block-wise management plan highlights the urgent need for effective water conservation strategies in the region. Learn more about the ongoing efforts by authorities.
Key Takeaways
- Groundwater levels in Lucknow have fallen dramatically.
- NGT is actively monitoring groundwater management.
- CGWB's block-wise management plans are crucial.
- Artificial recharge and conservation are key strategies.
- Next hearing is set for December 17.
New Delhi, Sep 29 (NationPress) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has requested a status update on the execution of the block-wise groundwater management plan devised by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) for Lucknow, where the groundwater level has apparently declined by a staggering 160 feet over the last ten years.
A Bench led by Chairperson Justice Prakash Shrivastava was reviewing a suo motu case triggered by a news article indicating that in regions like Azad Nagar in Geetapalli, groundwater, which was accessible at a depth of 80 feet a decade ago, is now located at 240 feet.
In an order issued on September 26, the Bench, which also included Justice A. Senthil Vel, acknowledged the requests made by the Lucknow District Magistrate and Municipal Commissioner, who asked for a four-week extension to provide details regarding the water bodies under the jurisdiction of the Lucknow Municipal Corporation, including the extent of encroachments and their current state.
During the proceedings, the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) referenced its report revealing that a National Aquifer Mapping (NAQUIM) study was conducted in Lucknow district in 2021.
Following this analysis, the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) developed management plans by block, proposing strategies such as artificial recharge, water conservation, and enhanced water-use efficiency to mitigate further groundwater depletion.
After the representatives for the District Magistrate and Municipal Commissioner requested additional time to submit the progress made in executing the block-wise management plan, the NGT granted the request and postponed further discussions to December 17.
In May of the previous year, the green tribunal acknowledged a press report that indicated the rainwater harvesting programs by the Municipal Corporation and the Lucknow Development Authority (LDA) were merely theoretical and had “failed miserably,” with numerous apartments lacking adequate facilities to capture rainwater.
The NGT noted that the article raised significant concerns under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, prompting it to take suo motu cognizance and issue notifications to various authorities including the Uttar Pradesh Pollution Control Board, Lucknow Nagar Nigam, Lucknow Development Authority, and the District Magistrate of Lucknow.
Point of View
It is crucial for authorities to act decisively to address the groundwater crisis in Lucknow. The NGT's involvement underscores the severity of the situation, highlighting the need for comprehensive water management strategies. As we navigate these challenges, it is vital that all stakeholders collaborate to ensure a sustainable and resilient water future for the region.
NationPress
29/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current groundwater situation in Lucknow?
The groundwater levels in Lucknow have reportedly dropped by as much as 160 feet over the past decade, with significant implications for water availability.
What measures is the NGT taking to address this issue?
The NGT has requested a status report on the implementation of a block-wise groundwater management plan prepared by the CGWB to address the declining groundwater levels.
What are the proposed strategies to manage groundwater in Lucknow?
The proposed strategies include artificial recharge, water conservation, and improved water-use efficiency to mitigate further declines in groundwater.
When is the next hearing scheduled for this case?
The NGT has postponed the matter for further hearing to December 17.
What issues did the NGT identify in previous reports?
The NGT noted that rainwater harvesting schemes reported by the Municipal Corporation and LDA had failed to materialize effectively, raising concerns under environmental protection laws.
