Groundwater Management in India Maharashtra State Report

Maharashtra is heading toward a serious groundwater crisis. Though it remains the primary source of water for farming and drinking, the state is withdrawing more than it can replenish. Groundwater meets over 70% of irrigation needs and 85% of rural drinking water demand, but increasing over-extraction, weak enforcement of policies, and erratic rainfall are pushing many districts into critical and overexploited categories. The Deccan Trap basaltic terrain makes groundwater recharge naturally challenging, adding to the problem. Despite the Maharashtra Groundwater Act (2009) being in place, unregulated water use continues, making sustainable management even harder. The report highlights better enforcement, community-driven water management, and improved aquifer mapping as urgent solutions.

Groundwater use in the state has soared over the years. Maharashtra has an estimated 30-35 BCM of groundwater recharge potential, but withdrawal rates reached 54% of that capacity by 2020. With unpredictable rainfall and failing surface water sources like canals and reservoirs, farmers are increasingly depending on borewells, leading to fast-depleting underground reserves.

Despite laws aimed at managing groundwater, enforcement is weak. Many areas lack detailed aquifer data, making it difficult to track usage or plan for the future. As more regions become overexploited, it’s clear that stronger policies, better governance, and local engagement are necessary to avoid a full-blown water crisis.

While the overall outlook is concerning, some local efforts show promise. The Malegaon aquifer project and rainwater harvesting initiatives in Jalna have demonstrated that community-led water management can make a difference. Organizations like Watershed Organization Trust (WOTR) have helped villages take control of their water supply by promoting water budgeting, efficient irrigation, and sustainable crop planning. These initiatives prove that when people work together, they can conserve and manage groundwater effectively.

Keywords: Groundwater, Aquifer, Irrigation, Recharge, Water Conservation, Sustainability, Policy Framework, Community Management, Agriculture, Hydrogeology, Maharashtra, Malegaon