Groundwater levels have declined in 554 of Telangana's 621 mandals, prompting the government to study conservation initiatives in Rajasthan and Maharashtra. The crisis, compounded by a 24 per cent rainfall deficit, raises concerns over drinking water and irrigation supplies.
Groundwater levels declined in 554 of Telangana's 621 mandals, with the State's average water table falling by two metres year-on-year. Deficient monsoon rainfall, increased borewell dependence and reduced replenishment have intensified concerns over drinking water and irrigation supplies.
Telangana’s groundwater levels improved in March 2026 following excess rainfall, but experts warn the gains may be temporary as El Niño conditions could weaken the monsoon, potentially reversing recharge trends and increasing water stress in vulnerable districts.
Since Medak and Sangareddy districts witnessed moderate rain in June this year, these two districts did not witness any major increase in below-groundwater levels (BGL) during the month.
Multipronged efforts by TS including de-siltation of tanks under Mission Kakatiya, lifting of water through KLIP has helped in rise of groundwater levels
The Groundwater Department monitored these water levels during September with the help of 963 Piezometers (monitoring stations) covering 589 mandals from 33 districts.
