Question

What do you understand by ground water? Describe the causes for its depletion and remedies.

Hint:

Conserving groundwater requires a combination of sustainable practices, technological innovations, and regulatory measures.

Answer 1

Groundwater refers to water that is stored beneath the earth's surface in aquifers, which are permeable rock formations that hold water. This water is replenished through precipitation that percolates down into the ground. Step 1: Understanding groundwater.
- Groundwater is an essential part of the hydrological cycle, serving as a major source of fresh water for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes. - It is stored in the spaces between soil particles and in cracks in rocks, and is accessed through wells or springs.
Step 2: Causes of groundwater depletion.
Groundwater depletion occurs when the rate of water extraction exceeds the rate of natural replenishment. Some of the key causes are: 1. Over-extraction for agriculture: The excessive use of groundwater for irrigation in regions with little rainfall has led to rapid depletion. 2. Urbanization and industrial use: Growing urban populations and industries rely heavily on groundwater for water supply, often leading to unsustainable usage. 3. Climate change: Changing weather patterns, with decreased rainfall and increased evaporation, reduce the natural replenishment of groundwater supplies. 4. Contamination: Overuse of groundwater can also lead to its contamination from pollutants, further depleting usable reserves.
Step 3: Remedies for groundwater depletion.
To address groundwater depletion, the following measures can be taken: 1. Water conservation: Promoting water-saving techniques such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and efficient domestic water use can reduce reliance on groundwater. 2. Sustainable extraction practices: Limiting groundwater extraction to levels that allow natural recharge through managed aquifer recharge (MAR) systems. 3. Government regulation: Implementing policies to regulate groundwater usage, ensuring equitable access and sustainable practices for industries and farmers. 4. Reforestation and watershed management: Protecting and restoring natural forests and watersheds can help increase groundwater recharge by improving the infiltration of rainwater.
Final Answer: Groundwater is an important source of fresh water stored below the earth's surface. Its depletion is caused by over-extraction, urbanization, climate change, and contamination. Remedies include water conservation, sustainable extraction, regulations, and watershed management.