Nagpur collector bans new borewells across district as rain deficit hits groundwater

Digging of new borewells has been banned in Nagpur district. Collector Kumar Ashirwad has issued a revised order to this effect. The ban applies to both urban and rural areas.

The administration said the rain did not favour the region this time and the effect is now showing on groundwater levels. Water stocks in reservoirs are declining and a water shortage is feared ahead. In view of this, the district administration has taken the stringent step so that every drop of water can be saved.

According to the order, low rainfall and low water in reservoirs could lead to a water shortage in the coming days. To protect groundwater sources, digging of new borewells is banned in the district. Deepening of existing borewells is also banned. The ban will remain in force until further orders.

Under the drought assessment process of the Relief and Rehabilitation Department, Trigger-1 has been applied in all tehsils of the district. The precautionary decision has been taken to reduce the added pressure on public drinking water sources.

Some essential works have been exempted from the ban. Borewell digging for domestic water use will be permitted. Flushing of existing borewells will also be permitted. Borewells needed for drinking water and for relieving water scarcity can also be dug.

Work carried out by contractors on the official work order of a government agency will also fall under the exemption. Apart from these exceptions, however, directions have been issued to stop any digging under way immediately.

To enforce the ban, inspections will be carried out jointly by the tehsildar, police, local self-government bodies and the Groundwater Surveys and Development Agency. Borewell contractors, rig owners and machine operators have been told clearly not to take up prohibited digging during the ban.

After digging is stopped, no borewell may be left open or in an unsafe condition. While carrying out water scarcity relief work at the government level, it will be mandatory to keep a copy of the relevant work order at the site. Those who violate the order will face action under Section 51 of the Disaster Management Act, 2005, and other applicable legal provisions.