Hyderabad: With summer fast approaching, the average groundwater levels in Hyderabad fell by 1.52 metres in February when compared to January. The steepest fall was observed in Ameerpet, which plunged by 5.73 metre below ground level (mbgl) from 14.87 mbgl in January to 20.60 mbgl in February.
Ameerpet was followed by Saidabad, which dropped by average 2.10 metres below ground level — from 3.70 mbgl to 5.80 mbgl. In Marredpally, groundwater has dipped by 2.03 metres.
With the increase in excessive consumption of water, groundwater levels may fall on a daily basis, say experts. K. Dhanunjaya, director of Groundwater Board, said, “Due to over use of water in areas like Ameerpet, Saidabad, Marredpally, groundwater level will drop as supply is less and demand is more. These areas also have many commercial complexes, hotels, hostels and hospitals using more water. What is supplied by the water board is not sufficient, hence the demand of groundwater level is high. The water board supplies water on alternate days, which is another reason for the fall of the groundwater levels. Borewells dug while constructing a house also cause a decline,” he said.
He added: “Compared to last year, the groundwater levels look better this time. Last year, the levels had started falling in January.” Jasveen Jairath, an environmentalist, said: “Excessive consumption of water by some citizens is leading to scarcity, while many others face a problem.”
