The Central Groundwater Authority (CGWA) has directed the Uttar Pradesh groundwater department to take action against real estate developers in Noida accused of excessive groundwater extraction and wastage. This move follows a complaint lodged by an environmental activist.
CGWA's Directive to State Department
In a formal letter addressed to the state department, CGWA Administrator VK Dhaundiyal highlighted that groundwater development and management in Uttar Pradesh are regulated by the state government. He requested the department's intervention and asked for a report on the actions taken. The letter included copies of the complaints received by the authority.
Activist's Complaint Details
Environmental activist Vikrant Tongad filed a complaint with the CGWA, the Uttar Pradesh government, and the Noida Authority, drawing attention to rampant groundwater extraction at construction sites in sectors 145 and 153. He alleged that water pumped out during basement excavation was being discharged into sewage pipelines and drains, contributing to the rapid decline of the local water table.
Tongad's complaint stated: "We have been receiving regular complaints from local villagers, social activists, and nearby residents about hundreds of pumps deployed at construction sites running round the clock. Despite complaints, no effective action has been taken by Noida Authority or the groundwater department."
Earlier this week, the state groundwater department separately directed the Gautam Buddh Nagar district magistrate to address groundwater wastage in Greater Noida.
Environmental Concerns and Recommendations
While acknowledging that de-watering is necessary for basement construction, Tongad told the Times of India that builders should limit excavation depth once water aquifers are reached, rather than continuing to pump out and drain the water. He also noted that the National Green Tribunal has prohibited the use of groundwater in construction projects, requiring builders to use treated water from sewage treatment plants instead.
"On one hand, we talk of preventing groundwater wastage in construction, and on the other, water is being pumped out and discharged into drains. This is pure wastage and causes the water table to drop considerably across the entire area," he said.
No Response from Noida Authority
The Noida Authority did not respond to requests for comment.
