Punjab Groundwater Extraction and Conservation Directions, 2023, have been notified by the Punjab Water Regulation and Development Authority (PWRDA).
Agricultural, drinking and domestic uses of groundwater are not included in the directions, according to a press release issued today. The new directions also exempt government water supply schemes, military and paramilitary establishments, urban local bodies, panchayati raj institutions, cantonment boards, improvement trusts, and area development authorities. Those who extract groundwater less than 300 cubic metres per month have also been exempted.
From February 1, 2023, groundwater charges will be implemented.
Each block (three zones) of Punjab has been charged according to the extent of groundwater stress.
