Data Bank on Palaeochannels
Information on traces of palaeochannels found in parts of the Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh have been generated as part of various studies carried out by Central Ground Water Board (CGWB).
Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) is implementing National Aquifer Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM) in the country, which envisages mapping of aquifers (water bearing formations), their characterization and development of Aquifer Management Plans to facilitate sustainable management of Ground Water Resources. Further, CGWB also takes up various studies with respect to palaeochannels as part of the same program as per requirement. Details of studies in respect of aquifer mapping including study of paleochannels taken up in some districts are given at Annexure.
Water being a State subject, initiatives on water management including study and recharge of Palaeo-channels in the Country is primarily States’ responsibility. However, as mentioned above CGWB in collaboration with National Geo-physical Research Institute (NGRI) has initiated few studies in parts of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh for aquifer mapping as a part of which distribution of palaeochannels and aspects related to artificial recharge are being studied.
There is no proposal in CGWB for the creation of a separate cell for palaeochannels activities and development of groundwater resources at present. Activities related to palaeochannels and groundwater development are being carried out through the respective Regional Offices of CGWB with existing officers/staffs
This information was given by the Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
