Punjab groundwater levels rise as Minister confirms Bhakra Dam safety

Punjab Cabinet Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal has announced an improvement in the state’s groundwater levels, noting that for the first time in approximately 30 years, the water table has risen. This improvement is attributed to enhanced water management and canal systems implemented under Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s leadership.

According to the minister, the number of over-exploited blocks in Punjab has decreased from 117 in 2022 to 110, while the number of safe blocks has increased from 17 to 20. Total groundwater exploitation has dropped from 164 percent in 2021-22 to approximately 152 percent, representing a 14 percent reduction.

Addressing concerns regarding the Bhakra Dam, Goyal stated that the dam is completely safe. He clarified that reported tilts or deflections are part of the dam’s design, noting that a deflection of up to 1.03 inches is expected and the structure returns to its original position when water pressure decreases. He urged the public not to panic based on unverified technical claims.