Groundwater depletion, toxic contamination grip Punjab's Malwa region

Chandigarh: Punjab's Malwa region is facing a dual groundwater crisis, with falling water tables and contamination by toxic elements emerging as major concerns, according to the Union government. Replying to a question in the Rajya Sabha by BJP MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, the Union ministry of jal shakti has acknowledged the presence of heavy metals such as uranium and arsenic in groundwater. The Union ministry, while responding to a query whether the govt had taken cognisance of severe groundwater depletion and emerging reports of heavy metal contamination in Malwa, stated that, as per groundwater-level monitoring by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) during Nov-Dec 2025, the region comprising Barnala, Bathinda, Faridkot, Fatehgarh Sahib, Fazilka, Ferozepur, Ludhiana, Mansa, Moga, Muktsar, Patiala, Ropar, Sangrur and Mohali districts was assessed through 164 wells. Of these, 73 wells (44.51%) recorded water levels in the range of 0-10 metres below ground level. The CGWB also generates groundwater quality data at a regional scale across the country, including Malwa region, through its groundwater quality monitoring programme and scientific studies. As per the Annual Ground Water Quality Report 2025, out of 296 groundwater samples analysed in the Malwa region, 9.1%, 3.7% and 53% samples were found to have arsenic, iron and uranium, respectively, beyond permissible limits. Sharing details of financial assistance under Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) and the National Aquifer Mapping and Management Programme (NAQUIM), the ministry stated that JJM - Har Ghar Jal is being implemented in partnership with states to provide contamination-free potable tap water to every rural household. As per JJM dashboard data, from Aug 2019 to March 2026, Rs 799.5 crore has been released as the central share to Punjab, with total expenditure at Rs 2,084.2 crore. The ministry clarified that NAQUIM is a scientific study project of the CGWB aimed at aquifer mapping and developing groundwater management plans, and does not provide financial assistance to states. Responding to queries on surface water-based supply projects and timelines for universal safe tap water connectivity, the ministry stated that drinking water is a state subject, with states and UTs responsible for planning and implementing schemes, while the Centre provides technical and financial support. Under JJM, 10% weightage is given to populations in habitations affected by chemical contaminants such as uranium and arsenic while allocating funds. States and UTs have also been advised that up to 2% of allocated funds may be used for water quality monitoring and surveillance. However, no separate allocation is made specifically for contaminated areas. They have further been advised to implement piped water supply schemes based on alternative safe water sources for affected villages.