Nearly one out of four people depend on&nbsp;groundwater - which is pumped from below the surface of the Earth - for survival since they lack access to streams, dams and freshwater lakes.

However, by the end of&nbsp;this century, tens to hundreds of millions are likely to be deprived of this groundwater as rising temperatures are likely to make it toxic and undrinkable.

The findings were based on the&nbsp;global-scale model of heat transport&nbsp;developed by an international team of researchers to measure how the temperature would change in groundwater sources across the world under different warming conditions.

According to this study, around 590 million people are likely to rely on water sources which may not&nbsp;meet the strictest standards for potable water till 2100.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-water-crisis-atishi-blasts-haryana-government-as-blame-game-continues-729981">Delhi water crisis: Atishi blasts Haryana government as blame game continues</a>

"A lot of focus on&nbsp;climate change&nbsp;has rightfully been to do with weather events and the availability of water,"&nbsp;said hydrologist Dylan Irvine from Charles Darwin University in Australia, as quoted&nbsp;by Science Alert.

"But we do need to think more broadly about the impact that climate change will have on groundwater," he added.

<h2>Warming groundwater can have catastrophic consequences</h2>

The warming of groundwater and its catastrophic consequences have been ignored for years. The water trapped within porous rocks can be filled with dissolved minerals,&nbsp;pollutants, and&nbsp;potential pathogens,

If this water is heated by a degree or two, it can take away oxygen from the environment and lead to the growth of dangerous bacteria. It can also cause the dissolution of excessive concentrations of heavy metals like manganese or arsenic.

A geoscientist at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany and the study's lead author Susanne Benz said, "There are already about 30 million people living in regions where the groundwater is warmer than stipulated in the strictest drinking water guidelines."

Watch:&nbsp;Water security threat amidst low snow on Himalayas, says report

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"That means it may not be safe to drink the water there without treatment. It may need to be boiled first, for example. The drinking water also gets warmed up in water pipes by heat in the ground," he added.

Even in populations which have sufficiently sized surface reservoirs, the heated groundwater's discharges can cause an alteration of key dynamics which keep its water safe for human consumption.

In the wake of the 'shared socioeconomic pathway', the current figures can double with 188 million people living in an area in which the groundwater is not meeting the strictest of standards for drinkability by 2100.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nearly one out of four people depend on groundwater - which is pumped from below the surface of the Earth - for survival since they lack access to streams, dams and freshwater lakes.

Nearly one out of four people depend on groundwater - which is pumped from below the surface of the Earth - for survival since they lack access to streams, dams and freshwater lakes. However, by the end of this century, tens to hundreds of millions are likely to be deprived of this groundwater as rising temperatures are likely to make it toxic and undrinkable. The findings were based on the global-scale model of heat transport developed by an international team of researchers to measure how the temperature would change in groundwater sources across the world under different warming conditions. According to this study, around 590 million people are likely to rely on water sources which may not meet the strictest standards for potable water till 2100. Also Read: Delhi water crisis: Atishi blasts Haryana government as blame game continues "A lot of focus on climate change has rightfully been to do with weather events and the availability of water," said hydrologist Dylan Irvine from Charles Darwin University in Australia, as quoted by Science Alert. "But we do need to think more broadly about the impact that climate change will have on groundwater," he added. Warming groundwater can have catastrophic consequences The warming of groundwater and its catastrophic consequences have been ignored for years. The water trapped within porous rocks can be filled with dissolved minerals, pollutants, and potential pathogens, If this water is heated by a degree or two, it can take away oxygen from the environment and lead to the growth of dangerous bacteria. It can also cause the dissolution of excessive concentrations of heavy metals like manganese or arsenic. A geoscientist at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in Germany and the study's lead author Susanne Benz said, "There are already about 30 million people living in regions where the groundwater is warmer than stipulated in the strictest drinking water guidelines." Watch: Water security threat amidst low snow on Himalayas, says report "That means it may not be safe to drink the water there without treatment. It may need to be boiled first, for example. The drinking water also gets warmed up in water pipes by heat in the ground," he added. Even in populations which have sufficiently sized surface reservoirs, the heated groundwater's discharges can cause an alteration of key dynamics which keep its water safe for human consumption. In the wake of the 'shared socioeconomic pathway', the current figures can double with 188 million people living in an area in which the groundwater is not meeting the strictest of standards for drinkability by 2100. (With inputs from agencies)

Earth's groundwater to turn 'undrinkable' for half a billion people by 2100: Study

A study conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) reveals a concerning trend of rising salinity in groundwater across the United States. Researchers studied data from 82 networks of wells, sampling water quality over three decades.

The study found increased levels of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions, suggesting growing salinity in the nation's groundwater.

The findings indicate potential implications for infrastructure, ecosystems, and human health, highlighting the need for enhanced monitoring and management of groundwater resources, according to Science Alert.

<h2>Extensive groundwater analysis</h2>

The USGS study analysed 82 separate networks of 20 to 30 wells each, covering various depths and locations, including domestic, urban, and agricultural areas. Over 500 different chemical constituents, such as metals, pesticides, fertilisers, and radionuclides, were identified. This comprehensive survey aimed to assess water quality levels and trends.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/does-brain-structure-change-during-menstruation-research-says-yes-649830">Also read |&nbsp;Does brain structure change during menstruation? This is what research says</a>

While the results have not yet undergone peer review, they can be accessed through the online interactive groundwater map maintained by the USGS. The study reveals increasing levels of sodium and chloride, indicative of higher salt content in the water. Additionally, the concentration of dissolved solids has been on the rise, potentially indicating broader water contamination.

Hydrologist Bruce Lindsey from the USGS stresses&nbsp;that "dissolved solids, chloride, and sodium had statistically significant increases more frequently than any other constituents." The researchers highlight three significant reasons for concern:

<ol>
	<li>
	Infrastructure Impact: Saltier water is more corrosive, posing a risk to buildings and infrastructure, particularly pipes and plumbing.
	</li>
	<li>
	Ecosystem Consequences: Groundwater feeds many streams, and elevated chloride ion concentrations can create toxic conditions for aquatic life, affecting reproduction and biodiversity.
	</li>
	<li>
	Human Health Implications: The study refers to a 2021 investigation linking increased radium levels, a carcinogenic element, to the use of road salts. Rising salinity levels in groundwater could exacerbate this health concern.
	</li>
</ol>

The study shows that increased salinity is particularly prominent in colder regions where road salt usage is extensive. However, arid regions also exhibit salinity increases, possibly due to irrigation-related evaporation.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Is there an increased security threat for overseas Americans amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war?

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While the immediate consequences of rising groundwater salinity are clear, the long-term impacts on ecosystems and human health necessitate proactive measures to safeguard water resources.&nbsp;

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A study conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) reveals a concerning trend of rising salinity in groundwater across the United States. Researchers studied data from 82 networks of wells, sampling water quality over three decades.

A study conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) reveals a concerning trend of rising salinity in groundwater across the United States. Researchers studied data from 82 networks of wells, sampling water quality over three decades. The study found increased levels of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions, suggesting growing salinity in the nation's groundwater. The findings indicate potential implications for infrastructure, ecosystems, and human health, highlighting the need for enhanced monitoring and management of groundwater resources, according to Science Alert. Extensive groundwater analysis The USGS study analysed 82 separate networks of 20 to 30 wells each, covering various depths and locations, including domestic, urban, and agricultural areas. Over 500 different chemical constituents, such as metals, pesticides, fertilisers, and radionuclides, were identified. This comprehensive survey aimed to assess water quality levels and trends. Also read | Does brain structure change during menstruation? This is what research says While the results have not yet undergone peer review, they can be accessed through the online interactive groundwater map maintained by the USGS. The study reveals increasing levels of sodium and chloride, indicative of higher salt content in the water. Additionally, the concentration of dissolved solids has been on the rise, potentially indicating broader water contamination. Hydrologist Bruce Lindsey from the USGS stresses that "dissolved solids, chloride, and sodium had statistically significant increases more frequently than any other constituents." The researchers highlight three significant reasons for concern: Infrastructure Impact: Saltier water is more corrosive, posing a risk to buildings and infrastructure, particularly pipes and plumbing. Ecosystem Consequences: Groundwater feeds many streams, and elevated chloride ion concentrations can create toxic conditions for aquatic life, affecting reproduction and biodiversity. Human Health Implications: The study refers to a 2021 investigation linking increased radium levels, a carcinogenic element, to the use of road salts. Rising salinity levels in groundwater could exacerbate this health concern. The study shows that increased salinity is particularly prominent in colder regions where road salt usage is extensive. However, arid regions also exhibit salinity increases, possibly due to irrigation-related evaporation. Also watch | Is there an increased security threat for overseas Americans amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war? While the immediate consequences of rising groundwater salinity are clear, the long-term impacts on ecosystems and human health necessitate proactive measures to safeguard water resources. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Groundwater in US turning dangerously salty, scientists say

Researchers in the US state of Missouri found high concentrations of microplastics in a cave system that has been closed off to visitors for the past three decades.&nbsp;

The recent study is an addition to worrisome research which shows the extent of microplastic contamination which has been found in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/microplastics-found-in-cloud-for-first-time-researchers-sound-warning-bell-640473">clouds</a>, rain and even in several parts of the human body.&nbsp;

The findings related to the significant microplastic levels in the cliff cave in the city of St Louis were detailed in two new research papers, published in Science of the Total Environment and Water Research.&nbsp;

This time around, microplastics were found in the water and sediment in the cave system in Missouri, according to the scientists studying student-collected samples.&nbsp;

<h2>Microplastics found in ‘human-free’ cave</h2>

Microplastics have been defined as tiny chunks of less than five millimetres long pieces of plastic and microfibres from clothes that get caught in the Earth’s atmosphere. However, they are also formed after the breakdown of other plastic products like plastic bags due to ocean currents.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/credit-card-equivalent-study-finds-how-much-plastic-humans-inhale-every-week-but-where-does-it-go-606194">&nbsp;‘Credit card-equivalent’: Study finds how much plastic humans inhale every week. But where does it go?</a>

What makes this study exceptional is that no one had been able to enter the cave system since 1993 allowing the researchers to eliminate human presence as a possible cause of microplastic contamination. Additionally, most of the research on microplastics in this context has been focused on surface water settings but not the subsurface level.&nbsp;

“A lot of research has been focused on surface water settings…one of the most understudied areas in this field relates to what’s happening to the subsurface in terms of microplastic contamination,” said Dr Elizabeth Hasenmueller of St Louis University whose team published findings, adding that this is because of the highly visible problem of large plastic pollution in the ocean. &nbsp;

Hasenmueller and her team discovered that the flooding not only contributed to higher levels of microplastics but also brought a higher diversity of microplastics to the cave water.&nbsp;

Furthermore, when it receded, more microplastic was deposited near the cave’s mouth than in locations deeper in the cave. The study also found that microplastics were 100 times more concentrated in sediment than in the water of the cave.&nbsp;

According to Hasenmueller, as much as 99 per cent of the microplastic debris present in the cave was found stored in the sediment and “only a very small fraction” was in the water.

“As the waters recede, that material remains in the cave sediment, potentially for decades or longer,” said the researcher.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-a-first-scientists-detect-microplastics-in-human-hearts-study-625084">In a worrisome first, scientists detect microplastics in human hearts: Study</a>

<h2>Importance of the study</h2>

Researchers also warned that these microplastics could enter the groundwater, a common drinking water resource, or caves which are home to fragile ecosystems. So far, there is very little known about the impact of microplastics on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/explained-study-finds-its-raining-microplastics-should-we-be-concerned-about-our-health-543789">human health</a>.&nbsp;

The cliff caves located near residential areas could have contributed to the high concentration of microplastic, according to Hasenmueller. She went on to warn that it could disrupt the delicate habitat of bats, amphibians, and other animals in the cave.&nbsp;

“On a larger scale, we, as a society, could move away from synthetic clothing, because a lot of the debris that we found in this cave was synthetic fibers from textiles,” said Hasenmueller.&nbsp; 
 
 
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Researchers in the US state of Missouri found high concentrations of microplastics in a cave system that has been closed off to visitors for the past three decades.

Researchers in the US state of Missouri found high concentrations of microplastics in a cave system that has been closed off to visitors for the past three decades. The recent study is an addition to worrisome research which shows the extent of microplastic contamination which has been found in clouds, rain and even in several parts of the human body. The findings related to the significant microplastic levels in the cliff cave in the city of St Louis were detailed in two new research papers, published in Science of the Total Environment and Water Research. This time around, microplastics were found in the water and sediment in the cave system in Missouri, according to the scientists studying student-collected samples. Microplastics found in ‘human-free’ cave Microplastics have been defined as tiny chunks of less than five millimetres long pieces of plastic and microfibres from clothes that get caught in the Earth’s atmosphere. However, they are also formed after the breakdown of other plastic products like plastic bags due to ocean currents. ALSO READ | ‘Credit card-equivalent’: Study finds how much plastic humans inhale every week. But where does it go? What makes this study exceptional is that no one had been able to enter the cave system since 1993 allowing the researchers to eliminate human presence as a possible cause of microplastic contamination. Additionally, most of the research on microplastics in this context has been focused on surface water settings but not the subsurface level. “A lot of research has been focused on surface water settings…one of the most understudied areas in this field relates to what’s happening to the subsurface in terms of microplastic contamination,” said Dr Elizabeth Hasenmueller of St Louis University whose team published findings, adding that this is because of the highly visible problem of large plastic pollution in the ocean. Hasenmueller and her team discovered that the flooding not only contributed to higher levels of microplastics but also brought a higher diversity of microplastics to the cave water. Furthermore, when it receded, more microplastic was deposited near the cave’s mouth than in locations deeper in the cave. The study also found that microplastics were 100 times more concentrated in sediment than in the water of the cave. According to Hasenmueller, as much as 99 per cent of the microplastic debris present in the cave was found stored in the sediment and “only a very small fraction” was in the water. “As the waters recede, that material remains in the cave sediment, potentially for decades or longer,” said the researcher. ALSO READ | In a worrisome first, scientists detect microplastics in human hearts: Study Importance of the study Researchers also warned that these microplastics could enter the groundwater, a common drinking water resource, or caves which are home to fragile ecosystems. So far, there is very little known about the impact of microplastics on human health. The cliff caves located near residential areas could have contributed to the high concentration of microplastic, according to Hasenmueller. She went on to warn that it could disrupt the delicate habitat of bats, amphibians, and other animals in the cave. “On a larger scale, we, as a society, could move away from synthetic clothing, because a lot of the debris that we found in this cave was synthetic fibers from textiles,” said Hasenmueller. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Scientists find microplastics in cave closed to humans for 30 years: Study

A new study has left scientists surprised and concerned after it was found that humans have pumped out so much groundwater in the past two decades that it has shifted the tilt of the Earth’s axis. According to the findings of the research published in Geophysical Research Letters, a journal by the American Geophysical Union, the Earth has tilted as much as 80 centimetres (31.5 inches) between 1993 and 2010, which has been attributed to humans pumping out groundwater and moving it elsewhere.&nbsp;

<h2>How much groundwater has been extracted?</h2>

The study, based on climate models, has said that an estimated 2,150 gigatonnes of water have been pumped out between 1993 and 2010 which is enough water to fill Lake Victoria in Africa and would weigh as much as 5.5 million Empire State Buildings.&nbsp;

Additionally, the extracted water which ended up in the oceans also contributed to six millimetres of sea level rise. However, the researchers have noted that validating this estimate is difficult.&nbsp;

<h2>Earth’s axis and water</h2>

The phenomenon of water’s influence on Earth’s rotation was discovered in 2016 but until recent research, there was nothing known about the contribution of groundwater to these changes on the planet’s axis.&nbsp;

The researchers for this study first modelled the observed changes in the drift of Earth’s rotational pole and the movement of water with only ice sheets and glaciers and later with different scenarios of groundwater redistribution.

It was found that the model only matched the observed polar drift once the researchers included 2150 gigatones of groundwater redistribution without which it was off by around 78.5 centimetres (31 inches), or 4.3 centimetres (1.7 inches) of drift per year.&nbsp;

The study also noted the impact of the location of the groundwater on the change in the polar drift as most of the water&nbsp;was redistributed in western North America and northwestern India during the time period studied. Since both regions are at midlatitudes, researchers observed that redistributing water from the midlatitudes has a larger impact on Earth’s rotational pole.&nbsp;

“Countries’ attempts to slow groundwater depletion rates, especially in those sensitive regions, could theoretically alter the change in drift, but only if such conservation approaches are sustained for decades,” said Ki-Weon Seo, a geophysicist at Seoul National University in South Korea, who led the study, in a statement.&nbsp;

He also spoke about how this study finds “that among climate-related causes, the redistribution of groundwater actually has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole.”&nbsp;

<h2>‘Surprised and concerned’ about the findings</h2>

Seo also said that he is “very glad” about finding the “unexplained cause of the rotation pole drift.” However, “as a resident of Earth and a father, I’m concerned and surprised to see that pumping groundwater is another source of sea-level rise”.&nbsp;

Speaking about the step forward, the lead author said that since polar motion data is available dates back to the late 19th century, it could potentially be used to understand continental water storage variations during the last century.&nbsp;

“Were there any hydrological regime changes resulting from the warming climate? Polar motion could hold the answer,” said Seo. Surendra Adhikari, a research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, who was not involved in the study, said that the study was about to quantify “ the role of groundwater pumping on polar motion, and it’s pretty significant.” 
 
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A new study has left scientists surprised and concerned after it was found that humans have pumped out so much groundwater in the past two decades that it has shifted the tilt of the Earth’s axis.

A new study has left scientists surprised and concerned after it was found that humans have pumped out so much groundwater in the past two decades that it has shifted the tilt of the Earth’s axis. According to the findings of the research published in Geophysical Research Letters, a journal by the American Geophysical Union, the Earth has tilted as much as 80 centimetres (31.5 inches) between 1993 and 2010, which has been attributed to humans pumping out groundwater and moving it elsewhere. How much groundwater has been extracted? The study, based on climate models, has said that an estimated 2,150 gigatonnes of water have been pumped out between 1993 and 2010 which is enough water to fill Lake Victoria in Africa and would weigh as much as 5.5 million Empire State Buildings. Additionally, the extracted water which ended up in the oceans also contributed to six millimetres of sea level rise. However, the researchers have noted that validating this estimate is difficult. Earth’s axis and water The phenomenon of water’s influence on Earth’s rotation was discovered in 2016 but until recent research, there was nothing known about the contribution of groundwater to these changes on the planet’s axis. The researchers for this study first modelled the observed changes in the drift of Earth’s rotational pole and the movement of water with only ice sheets and glaciers and later with different scenarios of groundwater redistribution. It was found that the model only matched the observed polar drift once the researchers included 2150 gigatones of groundwater redistribution without which it was off by around 78.5 centimetres (31 inches), or 4.3 centimetres (1.7 inches) of drift per year. The study also noted the impact of the location of the groundwater on the change in the polar drift as most of the water was redistributed in western North America and northwestern India during the time period studied. Since both regions are at midlatitudes, researchers observed that redistributing water from the midlatitudes has a larger impact on Earth’s rotational pole. “Countries’ attempts to slow groundwater depletion rates, especially in those sensitive regions, could theoretically alter the change in drift, but only if such conservation approaches are sustained for decades,” said Ki-Weon Seo, a geophysicist at Seoul National University in South Korea, who led the study, in a statement. He also spoke about how this study finds “that among climate-related causes, the redistribution of groundwater actually has the largest impact on the drift of the rotational pole.” ‘Surprised and concerned’ about the findings Seo also said that he is “very glad” about finding the “unexplained cause of the rotation pole drift.” However, “as a resident of Earth and a father, I’m concerned and surprised to see that pumping groundwater is another source of sea-level rise”. Speaking about the step forward, the lead author said that since polar motion data is available dates back to the late 19th century, it could potentially be used to understand continental water storage variations during the last century. “Were there any hydrological regime changes resulting from the warming climate? Polar motion could hold the answer,” said Seo. Surendra Adhikari, a research scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, who was not involved in the study, said that the study was about to quantify “ the role of groundwater pumping on polar motion, and it’s pretty significant.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

‘Surprised and concerned’: Scientists find groundwater extracted by humans has shifted tilt of Earth’s axis

Facing severe drought as it enters its hottest season, Thailand has launched groundwater extraction operations in its most arid regions to tap sources deep beneath the soil.

Thailand taps groundwater resources as it enters hottest season

Groundwater is a precious commodity. Although there abundance of water on Earth, a very very tiny fraction of its freshwater. This means that we have limited water to drink. Scarcity of water is an issue in itself but now a study has found that land is sinking world over due to excessive removal of groundwater.&nbsp;

The study has been carried out by American Association for the Advancement of Science nad has been published in the journal Eureka Alert! The study has been funded by the UNESCO.

As per the study, the majority of the 635 million inhabitants of subsistence-susceptible areas are located in Asia. Subsistence simply means that the ground is sinking. As per a Guardian report, countries like Mexico, India and China are rapidly draining groundwater to meet the food demand.

Economic growth has also been cited as one of the reasons for greater demand for groundwater.

The study has highlighted some scary facts.

It says that Jakarta has sunk by 2.5 metres in last decade. This is a huge thing considering changes in Earth's surface to the tune of mere centimetres are considered significant. The study notes that 25 per cent of the Netherlands is below sea level and more areas are under threat of subsidence.

The phenomenon mentioned in the study when coupled with rising sea levels due to global warming can prove to be horrible for global population in years to come.

The study has called for policy changes to tackle the situation.

Groundwater is a precious commodity. Although there abundance of water on Earth, a very very tiny fraction of its freshwater. This means that we have limited water to drink.

Groundwater is a precious commodity. Although there abundance of water on Earth, a very very tiny fraction of its freshwater. This means that we have limited water to drink. Scarcity of water is an issue in itself but now a study has found that land is sinking world over due to excessive removal of groundwater. The study has been carried out by American Association for the Advancement of Science nad has been published in the journal Eureka Alert! The study has been funded by the UNESCO. As per the study, the majority of the 635 million inhabitants of subsistence-susceptible areas are located in Asia. Subsistence simply means that the ground is sinking. As per a Guardian report, countries like Mexico, India and China are rapidly draining groundwater to meet the food demand. Economic growth has also been cited as one of the reasons for greater demand for groundwater. The study has highlighted some scary facts. It says that Jakarta has sunk by 2.5 metres in last decade. This is a huge thing considering changes in Earth's surface to the tune of mere centimetres are considered significant. The study notes that 25 per cent of the Netherlands is below sea level and more areas are under threat of subsidence. The phenomenon mentioned in the study when coupled with rising sea levels due to global warming can prove to be horrible for global population in years to come. The study has called for policy changes to tackle the situation.

Land is sinking fast world over because of excessive groundwater removal: Study

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched an official plan to tackle water scarcity in the country, focussing on seven states where groundwater levels are critically low.

"New India has to be prepared to deal with any situation of the water crisis," PM Modi said at the launch event.

Earlier, the Union Cabinet gave its approval for the implementation of the Atal Bhujal Yojana, a central sector scheme with a total outlay of Rs 6,000 crore to be implemented over five years (2020-2021 to 2024-2025).

The scheme aims to improve groundwater management through community participation in identified priority areas in seven states -- Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Implementation of the scheme is expected to benefit nearly 8,350-gram panchayats in 78 districts in these states.

The States have been selected according to several criteria, including the degree of groundwater exploitation and degradation, established legal and regulatory instruments, institutional readiness, and experience in implementing initiatives related to groundwater management.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched an official plan to tackle water scarcity in the country, focussing on seven states where groundwater levels are critically low.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday launched an official plan to tackle water scarcity in the country, focussing on seven states where groundwater levels are critically low. "New India has to be prepared to deal with any situation of the water crisis," PM Modi said at the launch event. Earlier, the Union Cabinet gave its approval for the implementation of the Atal Bhujal Yojana, a central sector scheme with a total outlay of Rs 6,000 crore to be implemented over five years (2020-2021 to 2024-2025). The scheme aims to improve groundwater management through community participation in identified priority areas in seven states -- Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. Implementation of the scheme is expected to benefit nearly 8,350-gram panchayats in 78 districts in these states. The States have been selected according to several criteria, including the degree of groundwater exploitation and degradation, established legal and regulatory instruments, institutional readiness, and experience in implementing initiatives related to groundwater management. (With inputs from ANI)

Centre launches Rs 6000 crore Atal Bhujal Yojana to improve groundwater management 

The groundwater level in 16 per cent of the taluka, mandal, block-level units in the country fall under the “over-exploited” category, while 4 per cent fall under the “critical” category, government data shows. Groundwater level of the 6,584 block, mandal, tehsil level units assessed by the Central Groundwater Board reveal that 4,520 units fall under the “safe category”, according to the data shared by the government in Lok Sabha last week.

As many as 1,034 units have been categorised as “over-exploited”, the data states. Nearly 681 block, mandal, taluka level units in the country, constituting 10 per cent of the total figure, fall under the “semi-critical” category, while 253 fall under the “critical” category. Nearly 1 per cent of the blocks, mandals and talukas had saline water. The figure is based on the government’s 2013 assessment.

“As per the 2013 assessment, out of total 6,584 assessment units (blocks, talukas, mandals, watersheds, firkas) in the country, 1,034 units in 17 states and Union territories have been categorised as over-exploited where groundwater extraction is more than the net groundwater availability and there is a significant long-term decline in water levels.

“Two hundred and fifty-three units have been categorised as critical, 681 units as semi-critical and 4,520 units as safe,” the minister of state in the Jal Shakti Ministry shared the information in Parliament last week. The overexploitation of the groundwater was highest in the states of Punjab (76 per cent) and Rajasthan (66 per cent), followed by Delhi (56 per cent) and Haryana (54 per cent). There was no over-exploitation of groundwater reported in the states of West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Tripura, Odisha, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa.

Groundwater levels in all the block, taluka, mandal level units from 12 states and Union territories — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli — were reported to be in the safe category.

The groundwater level in 16 per cent of the taluka, mandal, block-level units in the country fall under the “over-exploited” category, while 4 per cent fall under the “critical” category, government data shows.

The groundwater level in 16 per cent of the taluka, mandal, block-level units in the country fall under the “over-exploited” category, while 4 per cent fall under the “critical” category, government data shows. Groundwater level of the 6,584 block, mandal, tehsil level units assessed by the Central Groundwater Board reveal that 4,520 units fall under the “safe category”, according to the data shared by the government in Lok Sabha last week. As many as 1,034 units have been categorised as “over-exploited”, the data states. Nearly 681 block, mandal, taluka level units in the country, constituting 10 per cent of the total figure, fall under the “semi-critical” category, while 253 fall under the “critical” category. Nearly 1 per cent of the blocks, mandals and talukas had saline water. The figure is based on the government’s 2013 assessment. “As per the 2013 assessment, out of total 6,584 assessment units (blocks, talukas, mandals, watersheds, firkas) in the country, 1,034 units in 17 states and Union territories have been categorised as over-exploited where groundwater extraction is more than the net groundwater availability and there is a significant long-term decline in water levels. “Two hundred and fifty-three units have been categorised as critical, 681 units as semi-critical and 4,520 units as safe,” the minister of state in the Jal Shakti Ministry shared the information in Parliament last week. The overexploitation of the groundwater was highest in the states of Punjab (76 per cent) and Rajasthan (66 per cent), followed by Delhi (56 per cent) and Haryana (54 per cent). There was no over-exploitation of groundwater reported in the states of West Bengal, Uttarakhand, Tripura, Odisha, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Goa. Groundwater levels in all the block, taluka, mandal level units from 12 states and Union territories — Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli — were reported to be in the safe category.

Water crisis: Groundwater level in 16% tehsils, mandals and blocks in ‘over-exploited’ category

Amidst the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-water-crisis-hits-tamil-nadu-228401">severe water crisis in parts of the state</a>, Tamil Nadu government Tuesday said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet the requirements till the onset of northeast monsoon in October.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels, but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media.

Speaking to reporters in Chennai&nbsp;after reviewing the progress of work on the Jayalalithaa memorial, he urged the media not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity based on a few reports.

"The (northeast) monsoon will arrive only by October-November. Till then we have to meet the requirements only from groundwater sources," he said.

The northeast monsoon brings the bulk of rainfall for Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai, which is facing a very severe water shortage.

Krishna water from Kandaleru in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh was also not being realised in its full capacity, the Chief Minister said, responding to reporters' queries on the water situation.

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"All steps are being taken to supply water. The severe drought and deficient monsoon (in the previous years) has led to depletion in groundwater levels." 
"But drinking water is being supplied through tankers. People are using this water to even wash clothes," he said.

He said though lakes feeding Chennai have dried up, steps were being taken to ensure supply of drinking water, with efforts to augment it from&nbsp; 
Veeranam lake in Cuddalore district.

People should also understand the situation and cooperate, the chief minister, said and urged the media to not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity.

"The media should not create an illusion of water scarcity using some stray incidents," he said.

In one of the worst summers, taps in parts of the state, including Chennai have gone dry, affecting citizens and corporates alike.

While people queuing up with plastic pots in the city has become a common sight, IT companies are going in for various measures, including work from home to stave off the problem.

Tamil Nadu is facing its worst water crisis this year. With searing temperatures and delayed monsoon, most of the regions are facing water a terrible shortage of water.

The state is facing drought from three years because of successive failure of north east monsoons.

Amidst the ongoing severe water crisis in parts of the state, Tamil Nadu government Tuesday said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet the requirements till the onset of northeast monsoon in October.

Amidst the ongoing severe water crisis in parts of the state, Tamil Nadu government Tuesday said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet the requirements till the onset of northeast monsoon in October. Chief Minister K Palaniswami said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels, but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media. Speaking to reporters in Chennai after reviewing the progress of work on the Jayalalithaa memorial, he urged the media not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity based on a few reports. "The (northeast) monsoon will arrive only by October-November. Till then we have to meet the requirements only from groundwater sources," he said. The northeast monsoon brings the bulk of rainfall for Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai, which is facing a very severe water shortage. Krishna water from Kandaleru in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh was also not being realised in its full capacity, the Chief Minister said, responding to reporters' queries on the water situation. "All steps are being taken to supply water. The severe drought and deficient monsoon (in the previous years) has led to depletion in groundwater levels." "But drinking water is being supplied through tankers. People are using this water to even wash clothes," he said. He said though lakes feeding Chennai have dried up, steps were being taken to ensure supply of drinking water, with efforts to augment it from Veeranam lake in Cuddalore district. People should also understand the situation and cooperate, the chief minister, said and urged the media to not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity. "The media should not create an illusion of water scarcity using some stray incidents," he said. In one of the worst summers, taps in parts of the state, including Chennai have gone dry, affecting citizens and corporates alike. While people queuing up with plastic pots in the city has become a common sight, IT companies are going in for various measures, including work from home to stave off the problem. Tamil Nadu is facing its worst water crisis this year. With searing temperatures and delayed monsoon, most of the regions are facing water a terrible shortage of water. The state is facing drought from three years because of successive failure of north east monsoons.

Tamil Nadu faces severe water crisis, chief minister K Palaniswami says not a big issue

The IT capital of Bengaluru might be reaching new heights with entrepreneurship and investments, but still seems to fall terribly short when it comes to the quality of water it supplies to citizens. Studies have shown that nearly 80% of the drinking water being supplied is unfit for human consumption.&nbsp;

Located at a height of about 1000 metres above sea level, sourcing drinking water for a rapidly growing city like Bengaluru has always been a challenge. With the degradation of the city's lakes over the years, Bengaluru has become increasingly dependent on groundwater.&nbsp;

Nearly 40% of the city makes it own arrangements for water supply, as they do not have BWSSB connections. While water availability is one issue, the bigger problem is that of water quality.

&nbsp;A study by a research scientist in Bengaluru's urban and peri-urban areas found that nearly 80% of the water is contaminated and unfit for consumption. The water was found to contain disease-causing pathogens like E-coli, Salmonella etc.

‘If at all the water is contaminated with E-Coli and thermotolerant Coliforms, then it is unfit for drinking. So, we collected water samples from source and house levels and a majority of the samples were found to contain E-Coli and other coliforms. E-coli is the fecal indicator and it shows the water is fecally contaminated’, says G Sheeba, a Research Officer with the Trans-Disciplinary University in Bengaluru who conducted the study.

The research was conducted in areas that were densely populated and frequently reported cases of gastroenteritis. Tests were conducted on samples from source level, as well as consumption level. Bengaluru's lone Epidemic Diseases hospital over hundred cases of Acute gastroenteritis every month. The hospital in Bengaluru received 118 cases of acute gastroenteritis in November this year, 222 cases in October and 81 cases in September. The numbers also fluctuate depending on the season.

‘There is definitely contamination of water. At least, 95% of the water is contaminated. That is the reason we tell patients to not drink water without boiling or filtering. Those who do not boil water, face these health issues’ says Dr Ansar Ahmed, Medical Superintendent of the Epidemic Diseases Hospital. &nbsp;

Though the presence of pathogens in the drinking water makes it unfit for consumption according to WHO standards, experts in the city feel that problem is much deeper. While filtering and boiling can rid the water of pathogens, increasing cases of chemical and metal contamination, especially surrounding lakebeds is proving to be the biggest challenge.&nbsp;

‘I have seen higher instances of kidney failure in the city. As per statistics about ten years back, one in one lakh people used to have kidney failure, but now it is down to one in five thousand people. If things don’t change, we might have to have dialysis centres set up at our homes’ says IISc Professor Dr TV Ramachandra, who has researched on Bengaluru’s water problems for over 25 years now.

The IT capital of Bengaluru might be reaching new heights with entrepreneurship and investments, but still seems to fall terribly short when it comes to the quality of water it supplies to citizens.

The IT capital of Bengaluru might be reaching new heights with entrepreneurship and investments, but still seems to fall terribly short when it comes to the quality of water it supplies to citizens. Studies have shown that nearly 80% of the drinking water being supplied is unfit for human consumption. Located at a height of about 1000 metres above sea level, sourcing drinking water for a rapidly growing city like Bengaluru has always been a challenge. With the degradation of the city's lakes over the years, Bengaluru has become increasingly dependent on groundwater. Nearly 40% of the city makes it own arrangements for water supply, as they do not have BWSSB connections. While water availability is one issue, the bigger problem is that of water quality. A study by a research scientist in Bengaluru's urban and peri-urban areas found that nearly 80% of the water is contaminated and unfit for consumption. The water was found to contain disease-causing pathogens like E-coli, Salmonella etc. ‘If at all the water is contaminated with E-Coli and thermotolerant Coliforms, then it is unfit for drinking. So, we collected water samples from source and house levels and a majority of the samples were found to contain E-Coli and other coliforms. E-coli is the fecal indicator and it shows the water is fecally contaminated’, says G Sheeba, a Research Officer with the Trans-Disciplinary University in Bengaluru who conducted the study. The research was conducted in areas that were densely populated and frequently reported cases of gastroenteritis. Tests were conducted on samples from source level, as well as consumption level. Bengaluru's lone Epidemic Diseases hospital over hundred cases of Acute gastroenteritis every month. The hospital in Bengaluru received 118 cases of acute gastroenteritis in November this year, 222 cases in October and 81 cases in September. The numbers also fluctuate depending on the season. ‘There is definitely contamination of water. At least, 95% of the water is contaminated. That is the reason we tell patients to not drink water without boiling or filtering. Those who do not boil water, face these health issues’ says Dr Ansar Ahmed, Medical Superintendent of the Epidemic Diseases Hospital. Though the presence of pathogens in the drinking water makes it unfit for consumption according to WHO standards, experts in the city feel that problem is much deeper. While filtering and boiling can rid the water of pathogens, increasing cases of chemical and metal contamination, especially surrounding lakebeds is proving to be the biggest challenge. ‘I have seen higher instances of kidney failure in the city. As per statistics about ten years back, one in one lakh people used to have kidney failure, but now it is down to one in five thousand people. If things don’t change, we might have to have dialysis centres set up at our homes’ says IISc Professor Dr TV Ramachandra, who has researched on Bengaluru’s water problems for over 25 years now.

Bengaluru gets dirty drinking water, 80% unfit for human consumption

The groundwater of 24 districts of Assam has been contaminated by arsenic, while that in 13 districts affected by fluoride, the state assembly was informed on Thursday. 
Assam has 33 districts.

Replying to a query by AGP MLA Ramendra Narayan Kalita during Question Hour, Public Health Engineering Minister Rihon Daimary said groundwater in 6,881 areas of 24 districts is contaminated by arsenic.

Fluoride has also been found across 930 areas in 13 districts, he added.

The government has established 227 and 40 schemes for arsenic and fluoride free water respectively at various locations, Daimary said.

"The Centre has also approved 122 schemes for arsenic-free water in the state. But we have not been able to implement these as we have not got land for them. I request all the MLAs to help us in acquiring land for this purpose," he added.&nbsp;

The groundwater of 24 districts of Assam has been contaminated by arsenic, while that in 13 districts affected by fluoride, the state assembly was informed on Thursday.

The groundwater of 24 districts of Assam has been contaminated by arsenic, while that in 13 districts affected by fluoride, the state assembly was informed on Thursday. Assam has 33 districts. Replying to a query by AGP MLA Ramendra Narayan Kalita during Question Hour, Public Health Engineering Minister Rihon Daimary said groundwater in 6,881 areas of 24 districts is contaminated by arsenic. Fluoride has also been found across 930 areas in 13 districts, he added. The government has established 227 and 40 schemes for arsenic and fluoride free water respectively at various locations, Daimary said. "The Centre has also approved 122 schemes for arsenic-free water in the state. But we have not been able to implement these as we have not got land for them. I request all the MLAs to help us in acquiring land for this purpose," he added.

Assam: Groundwater of 24 districts arsenic contaminated

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