Is Groundwater the True Lifeline of the Ganga River?
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Synopsis
A stunning revelation from IIT Roorkee's recent study uncovers that the Ganga River's flow is primarily sustained by groundwater discharge rather than glacial melt. This research not only reshapes our understanding of the river's hydrology but also underscores the importance of protecting groundwater resources for future sustainability.
Key Takeaways
- The Ganga's flow is primarily supported by groundwater discharge.
- Evaporation causes significant water loss during summer.
- Glacial melt has a negligible role in the river's summer flow.
- The study advocates for sustainable water management practices.
- Local water bodies and tributaries must be protected to recharge aquifers.
New Delhi, Aug 1 (NationPress) A groundbreaking study led by researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee reveals that the Ganga River's flow is predominantly supported by groundwater discharge, rather than the widely assumed glacial melt.
The research indicates that this natural underground contribution enhances the river's volume by approximately 120 percent in its middle stretch.
Moreover, over 58 percent of the river's water is lost to evaporation during the summer months, an alarming yet often ignored aspect of its water budget.
Published in the journal Hydrological Processes, the findings emphasize the minimal impact of glacial melt on the Ganga's flow in the Indo-Gangetic plains during summer.
The study quantifies that beyond the foothills of the Himalayas, glacier-fed contributions are virtually nonexistent, failing to influence summer discharge levels up to Patna. After Patna, tributaries like Ghaghara and Gandak emerge as the primary contributors.
“This research redefines our understanding of the Ganga's summer flow and could lead to sustainable rejuvenation strategies for not just the Ganga but all major rivers in India,” stated Prof. K.K. Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee.
In contrast to previous satellite-based studies highlighting severe groundwater depletion in North India, this new research, employing comprehensive isotopic analysis from the river's Himalayan source to its deltaic end, shows stable groundwater levels throughout the central Ganga Plain.
In fact, consistent flows from shallow hand pumps over decades bolster the evidence of a resilient aquifer system that continues to nourish the Ganga during non-monsoon periods.
“Our findings indicate that the Ganga is not drying due to groundwater depletion, but rather due to over-extraction, excessive diversion, and neglect of tributaries. Groundwater remains the hidden lifeline of the Ganga,” explained lead author Prof. Abhayanand Singh Maurya, a faculty member at the Department of Earth Sciences, IIT Roorkee.
The study advocates for the revival of tributaries, increased environmental flows from barrages, and the protection of local water bodies to facilitate aquifer recharge.
Point of View
I believe this study from IIT Roorkee is a significant contribution to our understanding of the Ganga's hydrology. It challenges long-held assumptions, emphasizing the need for sustainable water management practices in India. The findings could be pivotal in shaping policies aimed at preserving not only the Ganga but also other major rivers across the country.
NationPress
30/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main finding of the IIT Roorkee study?
The study concludes that groundwater discharge is the primary source sustaining the Ganga River's flow, rather than glacial melt.
How much of the Ganga's water is lost to evaporation?
Over 58% of the Ganga's water is lost to evaporation during the summer months.
What are the implications of this study?
The findings suggest the need for sustainable river management strategies, including the revival of tributaries and protection of groundwater resources.
Who led the research at IIT Roorkee?
The study was led by researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee, including lead author Prof. Abhayanand Singh Maurya.
What is the significance of groundwater for the Ganga?
Groundwater plays a crucial role in maintaining the Ganga's flow, acting as a hidden lifeline that supports the river during non-monsoon periods.
