A STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF GROUNDWATER DEPLETION WITH REFERENCE TO HAZARIBAGH DISTRICT OF JHARKHAND

Abstract

A major environmental problem influencing many areas throughout the globe, groundwater depletion might have quite serious effects on ecosystems, agriculture, and human populations. This study centers on the Hazaribag district of Jharkhand, India, where industrial development, agricultural intensification, and population increase have been driving growing demand on groundwater supplies. By means of a thorough investigation of hydrological data, land use changes, and socioeconomic indicators, this study seeks to estimate the degree of groundwater depletion in the area and evaluate its several effects. Combining remote sensing technologies, field surveys, and stakeholder interviews, the study uses a mixed-methods approach to offer a whole knowledge of the problem. With an average yearly deplete rate of X meters, results show a notable drop in groundwater levels during the past two decades. Reduced agricultural output, more water stress for nearby populations, and noticeable changes in local ecosystems have all come from this depletion. Policy suggestions and possible mitigating solutions to handle this urgent environmental issue mark the end of the paper. Keywords: Groundwater depletion; Hazaribag; Jharkhand; water resource management; environmental impact; sustainable development.