Hingoli groundwater falls 2.23 m in September, water shortage looms before winter

Signs of a water shortage are clearly visible in Hingoli district as the monsoon ends. The groundwater level has dropped by 2.23 metres in September itself. As a result, the question of water supply to villages could become serious in the coming days.

To deal with the possible shortage, the district administration has begun preparations now. An action plan worth Rs 9.48 crore has been drawn up for various measures.

Some villages have already begun facing drinking water problems right after the rains ended. Water levels in wells and borewells are falling, so villagers have to wander in search of water. With signs of scarcity appearing as early as October, there are fears that the situation could worsen in the coming summer. The administration is stressing that necessary steps be taken before the shortage grows.

Different works will be carried out in the affected villages depending on conditions. The action plan includes repairing tap water supply schemes that are shut or damaged. It also includes implementing supplementary water supply schemes, drilling new borewells, deepening existing wells and acquiring private wells. In villages where water cannot be delivered by any other means, tankers will be used.

A plan for economical use of water is also being prepared. Water from existing projects and ponds will be reserved for drinking. In villages where water supply schemes are faulty or another water source is needed, preparations have been made to take up the necessary work.

If demand for drinking water rises in the coming period, measures will be taken after assessing the situation in each village. The emphasis will be on completing repair work on time, providing alternative water sources and delivering water by tanker when required.

Overall, groundwater has begun to decline in the district after the rains, and rural water supply is feared to be the worst affected. Given this, the administration has started preparing in advance.