Groundwater depletion raises concern in Visakhapatnam
Groundwater levels have declined significantly in several areas of Visakhapatnam city due to increased dependence on borewells and excessive extraction, according to data from the district Groundwater Department.
Yendada has emerged as the most vulnerable locality, with groundwater levels falling to 28.9 metres this year from 17.17 metres last year. Officials described the nearly 12-metre drop within a year as deeply concerning.
Residents in Endada said several borewells had already dried up, while some were yielding water mixed with white chalky mud. Many households and apartment complexes have reportedly started relying on private water tankers to meet daily requirements.
The situation is equally alarming in Madhurawada, Arilova and Peda Rushikonda, where groundwater levels have declined sharply over the past year. Data collected on May 24 from piezometers installed by the department showed a significant drop across several urban and peri-urban areas.
Officials attributed the depletion to rapid urbanisation, rising water consumption and large-scale drilling of borewells in apartment complexes, gated communities and commercial establishments. Although the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) supplies water for drinking and cooking, heavy dependence on groundwater for other domestic needs continues to place immense pressure on aquifers.
In Yendada and Madhurawada, borewells are reportedly being drilled up to depths of 400 feet to access water.
According to official figures, groundwater levels currently stand at 24.5 metres in Arilova, 23.38 metres in Madhurawada, 21.67 metres in Peda Rushikonda, 17.33 metres near Central Park and 14 metres in Shivajipalem. Rural areas such as Ananthavaram, Pandranki, Shontyam and Pandulapaka have also recorded a decline.
District Groundwater Department officer Pushpalatha said groundwater resources in the city were under severe stress and warned that several localities could enter the “dark zone” category within the next few years if the present trend continued.
She appealed to the public to adopt water conservation measures and implement groundwater recharge systems effectively to prevent further depletion.