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Haryana Blocks Delhi's Groundwater Plan
2 Apr
Summary
- Haryana opposes Delhi's tube well plan near Munak canal.
- Dispute centers on potential alteration of canal water flow.
- Delhi faces a 250 MGD water demand-supply gap.
The Haryana irrigation department has objected to the Delhi Jal Board's (DJB) plan to add tube wells along the Munak canal section in Delhi for groundwater extraction. Haryana argues that large-scale extraction and deep boring activities could alter the natural seepage and water flow through the canal.
DJB officials believe groundwater levels are high along the canal and IIT Roorkee has been hired to assess water potential. However, Haryana has suggested that any new tube wells should be at least 100m away from the canal. Delhi's 2025-26 economic survey indicates a daily water demand of 1250 MGD, with a constant supply of around 1000 MGD, resulting in a 250 MGD gap.
As Haryana and Uttar Pradesh provide no additional raw water supply, DJB is increasingly dependent on groundwater. The summer action plan for 2026 includes commissioning 436 additional tube wells before summer, increasing the total to 6,290.
