Ranchi: In a significant move aimed at water conservation and forest protection, the Jharkhand government has banned deep boring in forest areas and prohibited the extraction of water from rivers and ponds. The decision comes following recommendations from the Environment Department and the Biodiversity Board, which were accepted by the state government.
Deep boring, defined as drilling more than 300 feet, will now be prohibited for:
- Central and state government road projects
- Installation of electricity and communication towers
- Cleaning ores in mining areas
New Guidelines for Water Use
For any project requiring water from rivers, dams, or ponds in forest areas, the local forest administration must be informed. Before obtaining environmental and forest clearance, institutions must provide a detailed assessment of water usage. Approval will be granted only based on local water availability.
It is also emphasized that construction of roads or permanent structures on forest land remains prohibited, though deep boring had been previously conducted in forest land for surrounding construction projects.
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Improved Groundwater Levels in Forest Areas
The state has received above-average rainfall this year, leading to a notable increase in groundwater levels in forested regions. Water recharge from small streams and natural check dams has also been higher than in the past several years.
The Forest and Environment Department is formulating new rules to safeguard this natural advantage and ensure sustainable management of water resources in forest areas.
Significance of the Decision
This policy is a major step toward preserving Jharkhand’s forest ecosystems and water resources, particularly in light of increasing construction and mining activities. It reflects a commitment to balancing development with environmental sustainability.
