Water Cycle and Groundwater

Water is continuously moving through processes such as melting, evaporating, condensing, and circulating within the Earth's systems. This dynamic cycle involves water seeping into the soil and accumulating in underground reservoirs, which become essential sources of groundwater.

Advancements in the 20th Century

• Water Well Drilling: Significant advancements in drilling technology allowed for the extraction of larger quantities of groundwater.
• Pumping Technology: Enhanced pumping systems facilitated efficient groundwater extraction.
• Energy Access: Improved access to energy supported the widespread use of these technologies.
• Geological Knowledge: Better understanding of geological formations aided in identifying and accessing groundwater resources.

Importance of Groundwater

• Human Well-being: Groundwater is a critical resource that supports human health and livelihoods.
• Economic Development: It plays a vital role in boosting economic activities, especially in urban areas.

Despite its significance, groundwater is often misunderstood, undervalued, and poorly managed, posing challenges for sustainable usage.

Current Dependence

• Nearly 50 per cent of the world's urban population relies on groundwater, highlighting its critical importance.