Gurugram's Grim Water Future: HC Slams Neglect

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has expressed grave concern over Gurugram's persistent water crisis, warning of a "grim" future if aggressive corrective measures are not implemented. A bench observed that rapid urbanisation, driven by the city's proximity to the National Capital, has significantly outpaced essential water resource governance. This has led to a paradoxical situation where Gurugram suffers from acute potable water shortages and shrinking groundwater, while simultaneously facing paralyzing waterlogging during monsoons.

The court noted that decades of indiscriminate extraction through private borewells have drastically lowered groundwater tables. Natural water bodies have diminished, and their sustaining channels are largely blocked. Furthermore, the accumulated rainwater runoff during monsoons is not being utilized to replenish aquifers. The inadequate treatment and reuse of wastewater were also criticized, with sewage treatment plants reportedly not operating at optimal capacity.

These proceedings stem from long-standing litigation concerning unchecked construction and commercial expansion without adequate environmental clearances or water supply mechanisms. The High Court has retained supervisory jurisdiction over the matter and has summoned key city officials for an October 1 hearing to address the crisis. Previously, the court had also requested a comprehensive assessment of groundwater depletion rates from the Central Ground Water Authority.