In 2022, IAS Himanshu Nagpal observed a significant discrepancy in Varanasi's groundwater extraction permits.
For decades, people had been digging borewells and installing submersibles in homes, hotels, and commercial buildings.
“They are required to obtain permission from the district administration and, within a year, set up structures to replenish an equal amount of water through their rooftops. However, this regulation is not being followed anywhere,” says Himanshu.
The district received only about 30 No Objection Certificates (NOCs) annually for groundwater extraction, despite reports of at least 700 borewells and submersibles being constructed each year.
After conducting a survey of 1,435 borewells constructed in commercial premises, the department issued notices to them.
As a result, Himanshu learnt that private companies were unable to harvest rain amid a lack of sufficient space. So, he advised them to construct rainwater harvesting structures on public buildings.
As part of this initiative, 1,000 public buildings – schools, inter colleges, district hospitals, and various department offices – were equipped with rooftop rainwater harvesting systems.
Himanshu adopted a multi-pronged approach to increase the city's water table – from constructing 393 artificial ponds and integrating water-soak pits around 6,000 handpumps to rehabilitating a 30 km stretch of the Nad river.
Consequently, Himanshu says, the water table in Varanasi has increased 0.8 to one metre in the past two years.
He urges citizens to be mindful of the water scarcity in the country and be actively involved in water conservation efforts.
“When we open our taps, it seems to be a never-ending resource, but that is not the case. Think of a rural resident who has to walk miles to fetch water. Being responsible in utilising water could lead to a big impact on their lives,” says Himanshu.