Gujarat’s groundwater situation is at a crossroads. While it remains a lifeline for agriculture and daily needs, over-extraction, dropping water tables, and increasing salinity are causing serious concerns. The lack of strong regulations and sustainable management practices has led to growing water stress. However, hope lies in innovative, community-led initiatives that are successfully replenishing groundwater and offering models for sustainable water use.
Gujarat’s geography is diverse, and so is its groundwater situation. Some regions, especially agricultural areas, are facing rapid depletion, while others see seasonal recharge. Over the years, the state has relied more on groundwater as surface water sources have declined. The problem is not just about availability—poor planning, lack of conservation, and unchecked extraction have worsened the crisis.
Despite having laws and policies in place, groundwater governance in Gujarat remains weak. Laws like the Gujarat Water Users’ Participatory Irrigation Management Act (2007) and the Gujarat Irrigation and Drainage Act (2013) exist, but enforcement is patchy. Public investment in groundwater conservation has been inadequate, and an integrated approach that balances recharge and extraction is missing.
Amidst these challenges, local solutions are emerging as game-changers. In Kachchh, farmers have revived defunct borewells for rainwater harvesting, boosting water availability. In Mandvi’s Maska village, a blend of traditional knowledge and modern techniques has helped manage groundwater more sustainably. These efforts show that when people take charge of their water resources, real change happens.
To secure Gujarat’s groundwater future, stronger regulations, better investment in recharge projects, and community involvement are essential. With the right mix of policy support and local action, Gujarat can move towards a more sustainable and water-secure future.
Keywords: Groundwater, Sustainability, Recharge, Irrigation, Aquifers, Rainwater Harvesting, Salinity, Gujarat, Kachchh, Maska
Groundwater Management in India: Gujarat State Report
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