Groundwater extraction norms notified in Punjab

Punjab Water Regulation and Development Authority (PWRDA) notified the "Punjab Groundwater Extraction and Conservation Directions, 2023".

From February 1, groundwater charges will be levied .

Notably directions do not include groundwater use for agriculture, drinking and domestic purposes.The new directions also exempted the government water supply schemes, military and central paramilitary establishments, urban local bodies, Panchayati Raj Institutions, cantonment boards, improvement tru area development authorities and pla of worship.

Also users who extract groundwater less than 300 cubic metres per month will be spared too.

A PWRDA spokesperson said " all non- exempt users would have to submit an application to the authority for seeking permission to extract groundwater."

Groundwater charges have been fixed to reflect the extent of groundwater stress in each block of Punjab.

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