Is there going to be a water crisis in Vizag this year? Because of the falling groundwater level in many areas, the answer cannot be a categorical no. Despite the abundant rainfall this year, groundwater levels are rapidly declining. Apartment associations in the city have begun to warn residents to conserve water because borewells frequently run dry. Some associations have even begun to collect additional fees in order to purchase tankers to supply water.

According to the Ground Water and Water Audit Department (GW&WAD) in Visakhapatnam, the average groundwater level in the district in April 2023 was 8.10 meters below ground level (mbgl). In comparison to March, April saw a 0.62 mbgl drop, indicating that water levels have decreased or dried up. Groundwater fall has been detected at APTDC, Arilova, BVK College, Yoga Village, Pedda Rushikonda, Yendada, Madhurawada, APSIDC, Sivajipalem etc. Sontyam, Vellanki, Bheemunipatnam, Chippada, Chukkavanipalem, Pendurthi, Vizag Steel Plant, and Marikavalasa, on the other hand, have had stable water levels with no variation.                                                                                                                                                           Officials attribute the worrying situation to rapid urbanization, an increase in the number of concrete buildings, ineffective rainwater treatment systems, and other factors. According to GVMC estimates, the city has approximately 7,000 public borewells and over 3.5 lakh individual borewells. The GVMC intends to conduct a survey to determine how many borewells have dried up and how many leaks must be repaired.                                                                                                                                          

The current water crisis in Visakhapatnam emphasizes the importance of implementing long-term water management practices. Citizens and local governments must work together to identify the root causes of the water crisis and to take measures to conserve and replenish groundwater sources. This could include encouraging rainwater harvesting, reducing water consumption, and implementing environmentally friendly building practices. By taking a proactive approach to water management, a sustainable future for the citizens, in Visakhapatnam can be ensured.