Groundwater System of National Capital Region Delhi, India

Abstract

Water scarcity in National Capital Region (NCR), Delhi, has gradually become one of the most crucial issues for its citizens in the last few decades. The rapid decline in groundwater level due to heavy abstraction, change in land use pattern, and climate can be seen throughout the NCR. Further; this decline coupled with deterioration of groundwater quality also raises serious concerns. The NCR Delhi is identified as a low-rainfall region, yet by its location in the Yamuna River Basin it has always sustained itself against water scarcity for years in the past. The understanding of groundwater system of NCR Delhi and recent changes are very important for evaluating groundwater environment of NCR. This is a necessary prerequisite for regulated groundwater development and management in this region. Thus, this article reports all the facets of groundwater of NCR. The information and findings in the article will be useful for planners, scientists, engineers, and administrators.