Activist sends notice to regulators, seeks probe into groundwater extraction in Mumbai

Mumbai: Amid striking water tankers and the raising concerns over the city’s groundwater governance, Mumbai-based groundwater activist Sureshkumar Dhoka has issued a notice to multiple state and central authorities seeking immediate verification of commercial groundwater extraction and use across Mumbai and Maharashtra.In a representation made recently, addressed to the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), Central Ground Water Board (CGWB), Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB), state government departments, district collectors and the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM), Dhoka alleged that commercial groundwater extraction and use may be continuing without mandatory regulatory approvals in several cases.The activist referred to information obtained through RTI applications and official communications, claiming that around 385 wells are linked to tanker operations and that authorities have identified approximately 17,547 wells or groundwater-related installations, while CGWA no-objection certificate (NOC) details appear to be available only for a limited number of cases. The document, however, does not establish that all such wells are engaged in commercial extraction or are operating illegally.Dhoka has urged authorities to conduct district-wise verification of commercial groundwater wells, examine compliance with CGWA norms, identify tanker-linked extraction points and initiate action wherever violations are found. He has also sought disclosure of environmental compensation proceedings, sealing actions, prosecutions and groundwater restoration measures, if any.The notice cites National Green Tribunal orders passed in 2017 and a recent Supreme Court order in an environmental governance matter, contending that groundwater violations require stricter enforcement and greater transparency.According to the representation, the CGWA’s legal cell recently forwarded the activist’s complaints to regional authorities for appropriate action. The notice also refers to earlier communications indicating that district collectors have powers under the regulatory framework to act against illegal groundwater extraction, including sealing wells and initiating prosecution in appropriate cases.For Mumbai residents already concerned about water security, the issue highlights broader questions surrounding groundwater monitoring, aquifer protection and regulatory oversight. Experts have long maintained that sustainable groundwater management is critical for a city facing recurring water stress, rapid urbanisation and growing dependence on alternative water sources during shortages.It may be mentioned that amid concerns over a potentially weak monsoon, officials with agencies dealing in groundwater said they have stepped up vigilance over water extraction operations across Mumbai to ensure equitable and reasonable distribution of water within the wards. Officials said water-filling points will be closely monitored and tanker movements regulated to prevent supply distortions and ensure fair access as demand rises. Authorities also plan to issue advisories urging residents to use water judiciously. The move comes as Mumbai continues to face a 10% water cut that has been in force since May 15 due to concerns over available water stocks.