Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

CENTRAL GROUND WATER AUTHORITY

(Constituted under sub-section (3) of section 3 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986)

Guidelines for issuance of No

Objection Certificate (NOC)for ground
water withdrawal
(with effect from -------------)

Central Ground Water Authority

Ministry of Water Resources, RD & GR
Government of India
Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Government of India
CENTRAL GROUND WATER AUTHORITY
Ministry of Water Resources, RD & GR
West Block 2, Wing 3, R. K. Puram, Sector 1, New Delhi-110066

Guidelines for issuance of No Objection Certificate (NOC) for ground

water withdrawal

INDEX
ITEM Page No.
1. Background .............................................................................................................................. 1
2. Guidelines for grant of NOC.................................................................................................... 1
2.1. Drinking & Domestic purpose: .................................................................................. 1
2.1.1. Individual households: ........................................................................................ 2
2.1.2. Infrastructure projects and industries/ mines and water supply agencies ........... 3
2.2. Industrial Use/ Mine/ Infrastructure Dewatering Projects ......................................... 4
2.2.1. Non-notified Areas/ Safe/ Semi-Critical and Critical areas ............................... 4
2.2.1.1 Industries ...................................................................................................... 5
2.2.1.2 Mining projects ................................................................................................... 7
2.2.1.3 Dewatering for infrastructure projects ......................................................... 8
2.2.2. Notified/ Over-exploited areas with stage of ground water development at
>175% 9
2.2.2.1 Industries ...................................................................................................... 9
2.2.2.2 Mining/ Infrastructure projects .......................................................................... 9
2.3. Agricultural Sector ................................................................................................... 10
2.4. Abstraction of Saline Ground Water........................................................................ 10
2.5. Water Conservation Fee ........................................................................................... 11
2.6. Change in Land Use ................................................................................................. 13
2.7. Other Conditions (Applicable for all cases): ........................................................... 13
2.8. Renewal of NOC ...................................................................................................... 14
2.9. Extension of NOC .................................................................................................... 14
3. Authority to Issue NOC and Monitor its Compliance ........................................................... 15
4. Processing Fee ....................................................................................................................... 15
5. Relaxation .............................................................................................................................. 15

ANNEXURES
Annexure I: Glossary of technical terms used
Annexure II: List of Infrastructure projects
Annexure III: CPHEEO norms for drinking & domestic water needs
Annexure IV: Outline of Hydrogeological Report for obtaining NOC by industries
Annexure V : Annual Water Audits by the Industries
Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure VI: Measures to be adopted to ensure prevention from pollution in the plant premises
of polluting industries/ projects
Annexure VII: List of areas notified by CGWA
Annexure VIII: Guidelines for installation of piezometers and monitoring of ground water levels
and quality
Annexure IX: Outline of Compliance Report while submitting Application for Renewal of NOC
Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Government of India
CENTRAL GROUND WATER AUTHORITY
Ministry of Water Resources, RD & GR
West Block 2, Wing 3, R. K. Puram, Sector 1, New Delhi 110066

Guidelines for issuance of No Objection Certificate (NOC)

for ground water withdrawal
(With effect from …………)

1. Background
Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA), constituted by the Government of India under Section 3 (3) of
the Environment (Protection) Act (EPA) of 1986, in pursuance of the Order of the Hon‟ble Supreme
Court of India, has been regulating ground water development and management in the country. The
Authority has been vested with the following powers :

(i) Exercise powers under Section 5 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for issuing directions
and taking such measures in respect of all the matters referred to in sub-section 3 of the said Act.
(ii) To resort to penal provisions contained in Sections 15 to 21 of the said Act.
(iii) To regulate and control management and development of ground water in the country and to issue
necessary regulatory directions for the purpose.
(iv) Exercise powers under Section 4 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 for the appointment of
officers.
In exercise of powers conferred upon the Authority, it regulates ground water development
through advisories, directions, notifications etc. as and when specific situation arises. The
Authority has been granting No Objection Certificates (NOC) for withdrawal of ground water by
industries/ infrastructure/ mining projects. The Authority has framed guidelines for grant of NOC
for withdrawal of ground water, which have been revised from time to time.

2. Guidelines for grant of NOC

This guideline document will come into force with effect from ----------- and will supersede the
guideline document dated 16.11.2015 . Glossary of various technical terms used in the guidelines
is given in Annexure I.

2.1. Drinking & Domestic purpose:

All users drawing/ proposing to draw ground water through non- energised means and pump
of upto 2 HP from a single tubewell in their premises will be exempted from seeking NOC.
Individuals would be required to register their wells by uploading requisite documents online in
the NOCAP system and registration certificate shall be generated automatically (www.cgwa-
noc.gov.in).

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
However, those drawing/ proposing to draw ground water through pump of higher HP and/ or
through more than one functional tubewell shall be required to seek NOC for ground water
withdrawal. Applications are required to be submitted by the applicant online (www.cgwa-
noc.gov.in) to the Authorized Officer (Pl. refer to Section 3).

NOC will be granted for withdrawal of ground water through existing/ new ground water
abstraction structure for drinking and domestic purpose only. Grant of NOC for ground water
extraction for drinking and domestic purposes for infrastructure projects/ industries/ mining sector
will be considered only on production of completion certificate from the competent authority as per
Govt. norms. NOC for ground water withdrawal will be considered only in cases where the
water supply department concerned is unable to supply adequate amount of water in the
area. Proof in support of the same from the concerned water supply agency is to be submitted by the
applicant along with the application. Government water supply agencies are also required to
seek NOC from the authorised officers for existing as well as new schemes based on ground
water sources. For granting NOC for ground water withdrawal for drinking & domestic
purposes, two broad categories identified are as follows:

a) Individual households
b) Infrastructure projects and industries/ mines and water supply agencies
2.1.1. Individual households:
Individual households and builder flats other than Group Housing Schemes will be eligible to
apply for NOC under this category. In case of builder flats in a single plot, any one
representative of all the flat owners can apply for NOC. NOC for ground water extraction shall
be granted to individual households subject to the following conditions:

I. Application for NOC shall be accompanied by the following documents:

i) Proof of ownership of household(s)
ii) Certificate from the water supply agency regarding non-availability of public water
supply to the area.
II. NOC for new wells shall be granted only in such cases where public water supply system
does not exist. Once the household is provided with public water supply, it is
mandatory on the part of the user to bring it to the notice of the Authorized Officer.
III. NOC shall not be granted for new tube-well/bore-well, if any functional ground water
abstraction structure already exists in the household.
IV. The owner of the tube-well shall undertake rain water harvesting measures in accordance
with the Building Bye Laws/ State Government regulations in force. Alternatively, he/she
will have to pay Water Conservation Fee in the State Governments Head of Account (Refer
Section 2.5).

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
V. The NOC shall be valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issue or till such time public
water supply is provided to the household, whichever is earlier. The applicant will have to
apply for renewal of NOC at least 90 days prior to expiry of its validity.
VI. If the existing well becomes defunct within the validity period of NOC, the user can
construct a replacement well and intimate online regarding the same within 30 days of
construction of well. The defunct well shall be properly sealed.
VII. The NOC shall become void in case of change in land use of the property/ water use. It will
then become mandatory for the owner to apply afresh for NOC.
2.1.2. Infrastructure projects and industries/ mines and water supply agencies
An indicative list of infrastructure projects to be considered under this category is given in
Annexure II. NOC for ground water withdrawal for drinking and domestic purpose only for
infrastructure projects/ industry/ mines and water supply agencies will be granted based on the
following conditions:

I. Application for NOC shall be accompanied by the following documents:

i) Approval letter from the State Government Agency for the project (Consent to
establish).
ii) Referral letter from statutory bodies viz. Ministry of Environment, Forests& Climate
Change (MoEF&CC) or State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or State Level Expert
Appraisal Committee (SEAC) or State Level Environment impact Assessment
Authority (SLEIAA) or Urban/ Rural Development Authority where MoEF&CC/
SPCB/ SEAC/ SLEIAA do not issue referral letter.
iii) A copy of completion certificate issued by the competent authority.
iv) Approved plan of water supply in case of water supply agency.
v) Details of water requirement computed as per CPHEEO norms (Annexure III), taking
into account recycling/ reuse of treated water.
vi) Certificate of non availability of water from the concerned water supply agency in case
of infrastructure project/ industry/ mine.
vii) A schematic diagram (Flow Diagram) showing details of source-wise water availability
including quantum being/to be provided by public water supply agency, water
requirement and recycled water use at each stage for new projects.
II. NOC shall not be granted for extraction of ground water for construction activities in
the project in Critical/ Over-exploited areas.
III. Quantum of ground water for purposes other than drinking/ domestic use shall not exceed
25% of total ground water abstraction.
IV. Use of fresh ground water for swimming pool and other water based recreations are not
permitted in ground water stressed areas.

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
V. NOC for new /existing wells shall be granted only in such cases where the required amount
of water is not available from the public water supply system. Once the infrastructure
project is provided with adequate public water supply, it is mandatory on the part of
the user to bring it to the notice of the Authorized Officer.
VI. If the existing well becomes defunct within the validity period of NOC, the user can
construct a replacement well and intimate online regarding the same within 30 days of
construction of well. The defunct well shall be properly sealed.
VII. The Applicant shall undertake roof top rain water harvesting in the premises within 90 days
of grant of NOC and shall confirm to the Authorized Officer for verification. Alternatively,
the applicant will have to pay Water Conservation Fee in the State Governments Head of
Account (Refer Section 2.5). Government infrastructure projects will be exempted from
payment of Water Conservation Fee.
VIII. If the post monsoon (November) depth to water level in the area is less than 5 m.bgl or such
depth as defined in State policy, no ground water recharge is recommended. In such cases,
roof top rain water harvested shall be stored in storage tanks to minimize ground water
withdrawal.
IX. Installation of digital water meter with telemetry in the abstraction structure(s) is mandatory
and confirmation of the same shall be given to the authorized officer within 90 days of grant
of NOC. Monthly water meter reading shall be recorded and annual reports of extraction
submitted to the authorized officer. The server will be maintained by the Supplier of the
instrument and access will be provided to CGWA.
X. Construction of piezometers and installation of digital water level recorders with telemetry
shall be mandatory for projects requiring ground water in excess of 500 m 3/day in Safe and
Semi Critical areas and 200 m3/day in Critical and Overexploited areas. Depth and zone
tapped of piezometer should be commensurate with that of the pumping well. This data shall
be made available on annual basis to Regional Office of CGWB. The server will be
maintained by the Supplier of the instrument and access will be provided to CGWA.
XI. In case an infrastructure project is located in CRZ area, the relevant provisions of CRZ act
shall be applicable, in addition to the conditions stipulated by CGWA.
XII. The NOC shall be valid for a period of 3 years from the date of issue or till such time public
water supply is provided to the household, whichever is earlier.
XIII. The proponent/ authorised representative of the occupants of the infrastructure project shall
apply for renewal of NOC at least 90 days prior to expiry of its validity.

2.2.Industrial Use/ Mine/ Infrastructure Dewatering Projects

2.2.1. Non-notified Areas/ Safe/ Semi-Critical and Critical areas
All industries/ mining projects, whether existing/ new/ under expansion and drawing/ proposing
to draw ground water through energized means shall need to obtain NOC for ground water
withdrawal from the Central Ground Water Authority.

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

2.2.1.1 Industries
NOC to industries requiring ground water for mixed use i.e. industrial process and drinking
& domestic purpose shall be granted only for such cases where adequate public water supply/
surface water source does not exist. The applications for NOC will be considered as per the
criteria given below.
I. Application for NOC shall be accompanied by the following documents:
i) Referral letter for new/ expansion industries from statutory bodies viz. Ministry of
Environment, Forests & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) or State Pollution Control Board
(SPCB) or State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) or State Level
Environment impact Assessment Authority (SLEIAA) or Bureau of Indian Standards
(BIS) or Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The referral letter
should mandatorily indicate the actual water requirement for the industry for the
specified industrial process.
ii) A valid Consent to Operate issued by the Industry Department/ Pollution Control Board.
iii) A schematic diagram (Flow Diagram) showing details of source-wise water availability
including quantum being/to be provided by public water supply agency, water
requirement and recycled water use at each stage.
iv) Certificate regarding non/ partial availability of water supply to the industry from the
concerned water supply agency.
v) Consent from Local Administration (Gram Panchayat/ Municipality/ Town Area
Committee/ Notified Area Committee/ Municipal Corporation/ Urban Local Authority/
Industries Department in designated industrial areas) for ground water withdrawal in
case of Beverages/ Mineral Water/ Packaged Drinking Water Industries.
vi) Detailed Hydrogeological report and recharge plan, if the proponent opts for
implementing artificial recharge. If the proponent opts for payment of Water
Conservation Fee, no hydrogeological report would be required to be submitted. The
report should also include impact assessment study. A brief outline of the report is given
in Annexure IV.
II. Installation of digital water meter with telemetry in the abstraction structure immediately
after completion of well is mandatory. The monthly water meter reading should be recorded
and submitted to the concerned Authorized Officer on annual basis. The server will be
maintained by the Supplier of the instrument and access will be provided to CGWA.
III. Industries shall minimize the use of fresh ground water through recycling and re-use of
waste water. The quantum of waste water so utilized and the purposes for which they are
proposed to be used shall be clearly mentioned in the schematic diagram.
IV. All industries abstracting ground water > 500 m3/day in Safe and semi-critical and > 200
m3/day critical and over-exploited assessment units shall be required to undertake Annual
Water Audit (Annexure V) through CII, FICCI , NPC and certified auditors and
submit report of the same to Regional Office of CGWB.

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
V. All industries abstracting ground water > 500 m3/day in Safe and semi-critical and > 200
m3/day critical and over-exploited assessment units shall be required to mandatorily
implement artificial recharge measures as per norms given below:

Category Quantum of recharge (as percentage of ground water

withdrawal)
Safe 75 %
Semi-critical 90 %
Critical 100 %
Over-exploited 200 %

Alternatively industries will have to pay Water Conservation Fee in the State
Governments designated Head of Account (Refer Section 2.5).
VI. Industries drawing beyond 50 m3/day of ground water would be required to construct
purpose-built observation wells (piezometer) and install digital water level recorder for
continuous monitoring of ground water levels. The server will be maintained by the Supplier
of the instrument and access will be provided to CGWA. Depth and zone tapped of the
piezometer should be commensurate with that of pumping well/ wells. Records of ground
water levels and water quality shall be submitted to the concerned Regional Office of CGWB
on annual basis.
VII. Industries drawing beyond 500 m3/day of ground water would be required to construct
purpose-built observation wells (piezometer) and install digital water level recorder with
telemetry for continuous monitoring of ground water levels. Depth and zone tapped of the
piezometer should be commensurate with that of pumping well/ wells. Records of ground
water levels in the piezometers shall be submitted to the concerned Regional Office of
CGWB on annual basis.
VIII. All industries will regularly monitor quality of ground water. Samples from tubewells should
be collected during April/ May and November and should be analysed from NABL
accredited laboratories for basic parameters (cations and anions), heavy metals, pesticides/
organic compounds. Water quality data should be made available to Regional Office of
CGWB on annual basis.
IX. In cases where the project is located in CRZ area, the relevant provisions of CRZ act shall
be applicable, in addition to the conditions stipulated by CGWA.
X. NOC shall be valid for a period of 2 years from the date of issuance.
XI. The applicant shall apply for renewal of NOC at least 90 days prior to expiry of its validity.
XII. Industries like Tannery, Slaughter Houses, Dye, Chemical/ Petrochemical, Coal washery,
other hazardous units, etc., which are likely to cause ground water pollution need to
undertake necessary measures to ensure prevention of ground water pollution (Annexure

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
VI). Recharge/ injection of treated/ untreated waste water within/ outside the plant
complex is strictly prohibited.
XIII. If an existing well becomes defunct within the validity period of NOC, the proponent can
construct a replacement well and intimation regarding construction of replacement well shall
be submitted online within 30 days of construction of well. The defunct well shall be
properly sealed.
XIV. In case on change of ownership, new owner of the industry will have to apply for change in
name of the owner supported by legal documentary proof within 45 days of taking over
possession of the premises.

2.2.1.2 Mining projects

All mining projects need clearance from Central Ground Water Authority. Clearance for
abstraction of ground water may be granted subject to the following conditions.

I. Application for NOC shall be accompanied by the following documents:

i) Referral letter from statutory bodies viz. Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate
Change (MoEF&CC) or State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or State Level Expert
Appraisal Committee (SEAC) or State Level Environment impact Assessment
Authority (SLEIAA).
ii) Geotagged mine lease map.
iii) Document showing ownership/ lease of land.
iv) Mining plan approved by referral Govt. agency/ Department.
v) Comprehensive report on ground water conditions in both core and buffer zone of the
area including impact assessment of mining and dewatering as per prescribed format
(Annexure IV).
II. The water available from de-watering operations is to be put to gainful use such as water
supply, irrigation, dust suppression, mining process etc.
III. The proponent is required to establish a ground water monitoring network and installation
of digital water level recorders with quality probe and telemetry in an area within 5 km
radius of the industrial cluster. The server will be maintained by the Supplier of the
instrument and access will be provided to CGWA.
IV. The proponents shall undertake rain water harvesting/ artificial recharge to ground water.
V. In cases where the mining project is located in CRZ area, the relevant provisions of CRZ
Act shall be applicable, in addition to the conditions stipulated by CGWA.
VI. NOC shall be valid for a period of 2 years from the date of issuance.
VII. The applicant shall apply for renewal of NOC at least 90 days prior to expiry of its validity.

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
2.2.1.3 Dewatering for infrastructure projects
New infrastructure projects requiring dewatering during construction activity shall obtain NOC
for the same before commencement of work. The NOC will be granted based on following
conditions:

I. Application for NOC shall be accompanied by the following documents:

i) Referral letter (consent to establish) from statutory bodies viz. Ministry of Environment,
Forests & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) or State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or
State Level Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) or State Level Environment impact
Assessment Authority (SLEIAA) or Urban/ Rural/ Area Development Authority where
MoEFCC/ SPCB/ SEAC/ SLEIAA do not issue referral letter.
II. Detailed plan of pumping, proposed usage of pumped water and comprehensive
environmental impact assessment report on the potential environmental impacts including
impact on the ground water regime in the area. The report should highlight environmental
risks and propose management strategies to overcome any significant environmental issues.
III. The proponent shall be required to implement environment restoration plan including
ground water recharge in the surrounding area, which is likely to face problem of depletion
of ground water due to dewatering.
IV. Dewatering near coastal or estuarine environments should not draw saltwater into a less
saline aquifer. The likelihood of disturbing acid sulfate soils is high in these environments,
so effective risk management is necessary.
V. Dewatering system operator should be required to carry out regular monitoring as mentioned
below:
Parameter to be monitored Frequency
Dewatering discharge rate (using a digital water meter) Continuous
Physical parameters including pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved From commencement
oxygen and turbidity at the settling tank/ pond overflow of dewatering at
weekly intervals
Static water levels in the surrounding area through by constructing Fortnightly
observation wells (piezometers) to assess draw-down effects
Impact on vegetation and water resources by conducting Six-monthly
investigations over time, including pre-start and at completion of intervals
dewatering.

Monitoring records and results should be retained by the proponent for up to two years, for
inspection or reporting as required by CGWA.

VI. The NOC shall be valid for the specific period as per the detailed proposal submitted by the
project proponent.

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
2.2.2. Notified/ Over-exploited areas with stage of ground water development at >175%
2.2.2.1 Industries
The list of notified areas is given in Annexure VII. All over-exploited assessment units having
stage of ground water development >175% will be considered for regulation
(http://www.cgwb.gov.in/documents/Dynamic-GW-Resources-2011.pdf). In such over-
exploited/ otherwise notified areas, NOC to abstract ground water through any energized
means will not be accorded for any purpose other than drinking and domestic uses of new
industries or those under expansion. However, NOC to industries existing prior to date of
notification of areas or date of effectiveness of these guidelines, whichever is earlier shall be
granted based on the conditions mentioned in Section 2.2.1.1.

In areas notified on quality considerations, existing ground water polluting industries will have
to take up aquifer remediation measures in consultation with CGWB and CPCB.

Grant of NOCs to new and existing food parks/ agro based industries in notified areas will be
considered based on the conditions enlisted below:

I. The concurrence of Ministry of Food Processing Industries is mandatory for establishing of

Food Parks/ Agro Industries.
II. There must be food processing units for low water consuming crops and not for high water
consuming crops in the Food Parks/ Agro Industries, thereby saving in ground water
withdrawal.
III. No high water consuming industries/ units should be allowed within the Food Parks/ Agro
industries. However, food processing unit products such as starch and glucose would be
permitted.
IV. The Food Parks/ Agro Industries shall submit a detail report duly approved by the State
Agriculture Department on the quantity of ground water to be saved through the proposed
change in cropping pattern in the same assessment unit.
V. Assurance/ undertaking from the Panchayat or local governing body regarding change in
cropping pattern by the farmers in the same assessment unit would be submitted while
applying for NOC.
VI. The Food Parks/ Agro Industries shall submit their applications to the concerned Authorized
Officer.
VII. The net annual ground water saving due to such proposed change in cropping pattern should
be more than 30%, as per the assessment of the State Agriculture Department.
VIII. Other conditions as applicable for grant of NOC to industries will remain the same.

2.2.2.2 Mining/ Infrastructure projects

Any mineral mining/ infrastructure project which is of national and strategic importance will be
considered only on specific recommendation by the concerned State Government and will be

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
dealt with by CGWA as per the conditions mentioned in relevant sections. The Authority will
have to seek prior approval of the competent authority in the Ministry before granting NOC to
such projects.

2.3.Agricultural Sector
Agriculture sector is the back bone of the Indian economy. As per Minor Irrigation Census 2006-
07 (http://micensus.gov.in), 85% of wells are owned by marginal, small and semi-medium
farmers having land holding upto 4 hectares (ha). Around 11 % of wells are owned by medium
farmers having land holding 4 – 10 ha land and more than 2% of the wells are owned by big
farmers having land holding more than 10 ha.
Since livelihood of farmers is dependent on agriculture, they shall be exempted from obtaining
NOC from the Authorized Officer. In case of medium and large farmers, concerned State
Departments (Agriculture/ irrigation/ Water Resources) shall be required to undertake following
measures to ensure sustainability of ground water sources :
i) Minimize conveyance losses by adopting surface /underground pipeline system.
ii) Promote and incentivize drip /sprinkler and other water saving irrigation methods
/practices /techniques.
iii) Promote and incentivize crop diversification to less water intensive /consuming crops.
iv) Promote conjunctive use of surface and ground water in command areas.
v) Promote use /reuse of treated /recycled water.
vi) Arrangement for dedicated electricity feeder for agricultural pump sets and assured power
for fixed hours. Alternatively, while according new connections for agricultural pump sets,
the State Electricity Supply Agency can ask the farmers to give an undertaking that they
will run the pump for number of ours as specified by the State Government and will not
run diesel pumps in the remaining hours.

2.4. Abstraction of Saline Ground Water

Industries/infrastructure projects desirous of utilizing saline ground water including areas falling
under over-exploited and notified categories would be permitted to abstract the same. The list of
such assessment units having saline ground water at all depths is given in the report of Dynamic
Ground Water Resources of India (http://www.cgwb.gov.in/documents/Dynamic-GW-
Resources-2011.pdf). However, due care should be taken in respect of disposal of the effluents
by the units so as to protect the water bodies and the aquifers from pollution. Proposals
pertaining to such cases must have a detailed project report elucidating the mechanism of
handling the effluent water and its various uses. All precautions must be taken for protection of
environment especially fresh water aquifers in and around the area. Large scale recharge
mechanism should be adopted wherever feasible in such cases to improve the ground water
conditions in the region. Other conditions for granting NOC would be the same as mentioned in
Sections 2.1.1 and 2.1.2 for industries and infrastructure projects respectively.

In notified areas, withdrawal of saline water can be permitted subject to following conditions.

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

I. Saline water withdrawal shall not contaminate fresh water aquifers while transporting or
using.
II. No brine or waste disposal should occur in that area.
III. Withdrawal of saline water or pumping of saline aquifer by industry/ Organizations, should
not affect the fresh water aquifer, if any in the area.
IV. Piezometers should be constructed and water level and water quality of the aquifer from
which the saline water is pumped and that of the adjacent/overlying/underlying fresh water
aquifers, if any, should be monitored regularly.
V. The data generated shall be submitted to the respective Regional Director of CGWB
periodically.
VI. Adequate Rain Water Harvesting/Artificial Recharge should be done as per directives of
CGWA.
VII. In areas having saline ground water at deeper levels the application would be
considered for NOC only after submission of detailed Hydrogeological Report
indicating the long term impact on the ambient ground water regime of the overlying/
Underlying fresh water aquifers (Refer Annexure IV). This condition would be applicable
to all industries irrespective of the quantum of ground water withdrawal.
VIII. For saline assessment units listed in the CGWB report on “Dynamic Ground Water
Resources of India”, only industries requiring ground water in excess of 500 m3/day shall be
required to submit detailed hydrogeological report.

2.5. Water Conservation Fee

The ground water users, which are not able to adopt measures to recharge the desired quantum of
water would have to pay „Water Conservation Fee‟ as per details given below.

I. For Drinking & Domestic use:

S. No. Quantum of ground water pumped Rate of Water Conservation (Rs.)
3
1. Upto 50 m /day 0.30 x quantum x 365 days
2. More than 50 m3/day 0.60 x quantum x 365 days

II. For packaged drinking water/ mineral water/ soft drinks/ breweries/ distilleries
S.No. Category Rate of Water Conservation Fee (Rs. per m3/day)
of area < 500 500 to <1000 1000 to 5000 m3/day and
m3/day m3/day <5000 above
3
m /day
Ground days
water use

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 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
1. Safe 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.20
2. Semi-critical 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30
3. Critical 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.40
4. Over-exploited 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50

The amount of Water Conservation Fee will be calculated by multiplying the rate given against
each slab of ground water withdrawal by the quantum and number of days of pumping.

III. For other industries

S.No. Category Rate of Water Conservation Fee (Rs. per m3/day)
of area < 500 500 to <1000 1000 to 5000 m3/day and
m3/day m3/day <5000 above
3
Ground m /day
water use
1. Safe 0.70 0.80 0.90 1.00
2. Semi-critical 0.80 0.90 1.00 1.10
3. Critical 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.20
4. Over-exploited 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30

The amount of Water Conservation Fee will be calculated by multiplying the rate given against
each slab of ground water withdrawal by the quantum and number of days of pumping.

IV. For mining projects

S.No. Category Rate of Water Conservation Fee (Rs. per m3/day)
of area < 500 500 to <1000 1000 to 5000 m3/day and
m3/day m3/day <5000 above
3
m /day
Ground
water use
1. Safe 1.50 1.70 1.90 2.00
2. Semi-critical 2.00 2.20 2.40 3.00
3. Critical 3.00 3.30 3.60 4.00
4. Over-exploited 4.00 4.50 5.00 6.00

The amount of Water Conservation Fee will be calculated by multiplying the rate given against
each slab of ground water withdrawal by the quantum and number of days of pumping.

Government projects will be exempted from paying ‘Water Conservation Fee’.

For receiving „Water Conservation Fee‟, each State/ UT Governments will be required to
identify an Account. The amount thus collected will be used by the respective State

12
 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Governments for implementation of ground water recharge/ water conservation measures. After
notification of this guideline document, State/ UT Governments in consultation with their
Finance Department will frame detailed guidelines for utilization of the fee thus collected. The
accounts will be audited on annual basis.

2.6. Change in Land Use

The NOC shall become void in case of change in land use of the property/ water use. It will then
become mandatory for the owner to apply afresh for NOC.

The ground water user shall have to submit all documents endorsing the change from the
competent authority. Withdrawal of ground water from existing abstraction structures, if
any, after change in land use in the area can be effected only after obtaining NOC from the
concerned Authorized Officer/ Organization. Cases would be processed as per changed land use.

2.7. Other Conditions (Applicable for all cases):

I. Sale and supply of raw/unprocessed/untreated ground water by unauthorized agencies for
commercial use is not permitted.
II. No application for NOC shall be entertained without referral letters from the statutory
authority.
III. The referral letter shall contain verification on the quantum of water for the
industry/project with detailed break up of ground water consumption, recycle & reuse of
the waste water, so that the wastage of the precious resource can be avoided. In case this is
not given by the referral authority, applicant should obtain a letter from the Industries
Department/ Project Sanctioning Authority/ local municipal authority in urban areas on the
same lines.
IV. The CRZA rules and regulation shall be applicable wherever in vogue.
V. No permission would be required for withdrawal of ground water from any area if
withdrawal is done through non-energized means.
VI. Mandatory clause on rain water harvesting may be relaxed in case of water logged/shallow
water level (< 5 m bgl during post monsoon or as per state policy) areas.
VII. Contaminated/ treated water shall not be used for recharge to ground water. The treated
water should be fully used by the proponent or any other agency, who can utilize it without
contaminating the underlying aquifer / water bodies.
VIII. Abstraction structure should be located inside the premises of project property.
IX. The general guidelines for the ground water level monitoring and construction of
piezometers for this purpose are annexed as Annexure IX.
X. All conditions laid down in the Hon’ble Supreme Court’s Order dated August 6, 2010
regarding measures for prevention of fatal accidents of small children due to their falling into
abandoned bore wells and tube wells should be strictly followed (Annexure X).

13
 Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
XI. Non-compliance of conditions mentioned in the NOC may be taken as sufficient
reason for cancellation of NOC accorded/ non-renewal of NOC.
XII. Any violation of the directions of Central Ground Water Authority and conditions
laid down in the NOC will attract legal action under sections 15 to 21 of the
Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.

2.8.Renewal of NOC
a) After expiry of validity of NOC, it shall be renewed subject to compliance of the
conditions mentioned in the NOC.
b) Application for renewal of NOC should be accompanied by the Compliance Report (as per
Annexure X).
c) Renewal of NOC‟s will be done by the Authorized Officer/ Organization.
d) In case of change in category of the area, renewals would be granted with conditions as laid
down for such new category areas.
e) In case it is found that some of the conditions stipulated during the issuance of NOC have
not been found feasible to implement, it may be relaxed by the concerned Authorized
Officer/ Organization.
f) Processing fee prescribed, if any, from time to time shall be charged for issuance and
renewal of NOC.
g) NOC will be renewed for term specified for various uses as follows:
Use Term of renewal
Individual Households for drinking & domestic use Every 5 Years
Infrastructure projects, industries/ mines for drinking Every 3 years
& domestic use and Water Supply Agencies
Industries and Mines NOC will be first renewed for 3
years and subsequently for every 5
years
2.9. Extension of NOC
If the proponent is unable to construct tubewell/ tubewells as granted in the NOC during the
validity period for some genuine reasons, the proponent will have to apply for extension of NOC.
Application for extension should be supported by documents justifying the reasons for delay.
Other conditions for grant of extension of NOC will be the same as that for fresh NOC.

Extension of NOC will be granted by the Authorized Officer twice for a period of one year each.
No further extension will be granted after the second extended year. In that case, the applicant
will have to apply afresh for grant of NOC.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

3. Authority to Issue NOC and Monitor its Compliance

The authority to issue NOC for various uses will be vested with the District Magistrates/ Deputy
Commissioners, State Ground Water Authority/ State Nodal agency and Central Ground Water
Authority as per details given below:
Quantum of ground water abstraction Authorized Officer/ Organization
Safe and Semi-Critical Critical and Over-exploited
Assessment units including notified
assessment units
Up to 50 m3/ day Up to 20 m3/ day District Magistrate/ Deputy
Commissioner
> 50 - 500 m3/ day >20–200 m3/ day State Ground Water Authority/ State
Nodal Agency
>500 m3/ day >200 m3/ day Central Ground Water Authority
All cases pertaining to mining and infrastructure Central Ground Water Authority
dewatering

Central Ground Water Authority will appoint Authorized Officers at both District and State
Levels. State/ UT Governments may appoint Advisory Committees to assist the Authorized
Officers/ DM/ DC at the district level. At State level, the State/ UT may identify one Nodal
Officer at the level of Principal Secretary, who will be assisted by State Level Advisory
Committee constituted by the State Government/ State Ground Water Authority. Each State
Level Advisory Committee will have a representative of Central Ground Water Board as a
member.
Each Authority/ Authorized Officer issuing NOC shall send a copy of the NOC to the
respective DM/ DC. Compliance of all NOCs will be monitored by the respective DM/ DC.

4. Processing Fee
A Processing fee of Rs. 1000/- will be applicable for grant of new NOC and Rs. 500/- shall be
applicable for renewal / extension of NOC.

5. Relaxation
The CGWA in consultation with legal expert reserves the right to relax or interpret these
guidelines in case of any exigency or situation of natural strategic importance, for reasons to be
recorded in writing.

Note: Guidelines are subject to modification from time to time

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure-I

Glossary of Technical Terms:

1. Notified Area: Areas notified by Central Ground Water Authority for the purpose of
Regulation of Ground Water development through Public Notices.
2. Non-notified area: Areas other than Notified areas for ground water regulation.
3. EPA 1986: Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986.
4. Safe area: Area categorized as SAFE from the ground water resources point of view, based
on the latest dynamic ground water resources estimation.
5. Semi-critical area: Area categorized as SEMI-CRITICAL from the ground water resources
point of view, based on the latest dynamic ground water resources estimation.
6. Critical area: Area categorized as CRITICAL from the ground water resources point of
view, based on the latest dynamic ground water resources estimation.
7. Over-exploited area: Area categorized as OVER-EXPLOITED from the ground water
resources point of view, based on the latest dynamic ground water resources estimation.
8. Aquifer: Geological formation capable of storing and transmitting ground water.
9. Deeper Aquifer: In areas having multiple aquifer system, the aquifer other than first
aquifer.
10. Well: Any structure sunk for the search or extraction of groundwater, including open wells,
dug wells, bore wells, dug-cum-bore wells, tube wells, filter points, collector wells,
infiltration galleries, recharge wells, or any of their combinations or variations.
11. Tube Well; Bore Well; Dug Well: Ground Water abstraction structures.
12. Government Agency: May be Central or State Government body.
13. Mine: Area where mining activity is taking place, or area abandoned after mining.
14. Ground Water Recharge: Augmenting the ground water resources of aquifer/s.
15. Rainwater Harvesting: The technique or system of collection and storage of rainwater, at
micro watershed scale, including roof-top harvesting, for future use or for recharge of
groundwater.
16. Roof Top Rain Water Harvesting: Collection and storage of rain water from the roof top
of buildings.
17. Artificial Recharge to ground water: Augmenting the ground water source through
artificial means.
18. Mining Project: Project which involves mining activity either open cast or underground or
both.
19. Ground Water Draft: Quantum of ground water withdrawal.
20. Saline Water: Water having salinity in excess of 2500 µmhos/cm at 250C.
21. Water Table Intersection: Intersection of the Water Table on excavation of the overlying
material due to mining or other activities.
22. Recycle/Reuse: Purifying waste water for using again/ putting water to multiple uses.
23. Groundwater: Water, which exists below the surface in the zone of saturation and can be
extracted through wells or any other means or emerges as springs and base flows in streams
and rivers;

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
24. Bgl: Below Ground Level.
25. Groundwater Abstraction structure: Structure used to withdraw groundwater like bore
well / tube well / dug well / dug cum bore well/tunnel well.
26. Piezometer: A bore well/tube well used only for measuring the water level/piezometric
head and to take water sample periodically but not used for groundwater abstraction.
27. Water Audit: A numerical assessment quantity of water in any process, giving a detailed
input and output in every stage.

17
Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure-II
Category of Infrastructure projects

Residential apartment
Residential township
Office building
School
College
University
Industrial Area (Drinking use)
SEZ (Drinking use)
Metro Station
Railway Station
Bus Depot
Airport
Seaport
Highway infrastructure
Fire station
Warehouse
Business Plaza
Malls & Multiplex
Hospitals
Nursing Homes
Water Park &Amusement Centres
Resort
Hotel
Holiday home/Guest house
Banquet Hall
IT Complex
Logistics & Cargo
Clubs

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure III
CPHEEO Norms for drinking & domestic water needs

S.No. Classification of towns/ cities Recommended maximum

water supply levels (lpcd)
1. Towns provided with piped water supply but without 70
sewerage system
2. Cities provided with piped water supply where sewerage 135
system is existing/ contemplated
3. Metropolitan and Mega cities provided with piped water 150
supply where sewerage system is existing/
contemplated
Note :
i) In urban areas, where water is provided through public stand posts , 40 lpcd should be
considered.
ii) Figures exclude “Unaccounted for Water (UFW)” which should be limited to 15%.
ii) Figures include requirements of water for commercial, institutional and minor industries.
However, for bulk water supply such establishments should be assessed separately with
proper justification.

Institutional Needs
S.No. Institutions Litres per head per day
1. Hospital (including laundry)
(a) No. of beds exceeding 100 450 (per bed)
(b) No. of beds not exceeding 100 340 (per bed)
2. Hotels 180 (per bed)
3. Hostels 135
4. Nurses homes and medical quarters 135
5. Boarding Schools/ Colleges 135
6. Restaurants 70 (per seat)
7. Airports and Seaports 70
8. Junction Stations and intermediate stations where 70
mail or express stoppage (both railways and bus
stations) is provided
9. Terminal Stations 45
10 Intermediate stations (excluding mail and express 45
stops) (could be reduced to 25 where
bathing facilities are not
provided)
11. Day Schools/ colleges 45
12. Offices 45
13. Factories 45
(could be reduced to 30 where
no bathrooms are provided)
14. Cinema, Concert hall and theatre 15
Source: Ministry of Urban Development, Central Public Health & Environmental Engineering
Organization Manual on Water Supply and Treatment (May, 1999)
(http://www.mdws.gov.in/sites/default/files/Manual_on_Water_Supply_and_Treatment_CPHEEO_MoUD_
1999.pdf)

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure IV
Outline of Hydrogeological Report for obtaining NOC by the Industries

1. Brief about the proposed project giving location details, coordinates, google/ toposheet
maps, etc. demarcating the project area.
2. Ground water situation in and around the project area including water level and quality
data and maps along with quality issues, if any.
3. Details of the tubewells/ borewells proposed to be constructed. This includes the drilling
depth, diameter, tentative lithological log, details of pump to be lowered, H.P. of pump,
tentative discharge of tubewells/ borewells, etc. Locations to be marked on the site plan/
map. Location of proposed piezometers.
4. Details of Geophysical studies carried out in and around the project area. Ground water
resources computation of the block in which the project falls.
5. Details of artificial recharge & rainwater harvesting measures proposed to be
implemented by the firm with detailed designs, type & number of recharge structures/
shafts; quantum of water recharged/ proposed to be recharged per annum; etc.
- Details of recharge computations for roof top; paved/ roads; open; green belt.
- Designs of the proposed recharge structures (both plan and section view).
- Location of the recharge structures proposed to be implemented within the project
premises (on layout plan).
- Computation of runoff from the catchments intended to divert to the pond/ ponds
(if any).
- Location of adopted pond/ ponds (on layout plan).
- Design of recharge shaft/ shafts constructed within the pond/ ponds.
- Computation of recharge quantum proposed to be implemented outside the project
area viz. ponds with recharge shafts; check dams/ nala bunds/ cement plugs; gabion
structures; contour trenches; sub-surface dykes, etc., if any.
- Details/ measures proposed to be taken for maintenance activities for the
implemented recharge structures for ensuring effective recharge.
- Location on map showing proposed recharge structures for rain water conservation
and recharge.

Runoff Coefficient to be adopted for preparation of rainwater harvesting/ artificial recharge

proposals

Type of land use Runoff Coefficient

Roof Areas (inclined) 0.85 to 0.90
Roof Areas (flat) 0.80 to 0.85
Roads/ Concrete areas 0.65 to 0.75
Paved areas 0.60 to 0.70
Semi-paved areas 0.40 to 0.50
Open areas O.15 to 0.20
Green areas 0.10 to 0.15
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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

6. Measures to be adopted for water conservation which include recycle, reuse, treatment,
etc. This includes the water balance chart being adopted by the firm along with details of
water conservation methods to be adopted.
- Brief write up along with capacity and flow chart of STP/ ETP/ CEPT existing/
proposed within the project.
- Details of water conservation measures to be adopted to reduce/ save the ground
water.
- Total water balance chart showing the usage of water for various processes.
7. Any other details pertaining to the project.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure V

Annual Water Audits by the industries

Water audit is a systematic process of objectively obtaining a water balance by measuring flow
of water from the site of water withdrawal or treatment, through the distribution system, and into
areas where it is used and finally discharged. Conducting a water audit involves calculating
water balance, water use and identifying ways for saving water.

Water audit involves preliminary water survey and detailed water audit. Preliminary water
survey is conducted to collect background information regarding plant activities, water
consumption and water discharge pattern and water billing, rates and water cess. After the
analysis of the secondary data collected from the industry, detailed water audit is conducted,
which involves the following steps:

 On site training and discussion with facility manager and personnel

 Water system analysis
 Quantification of baseline water map
 Monitoring and measurements using pressure and flow meters and various other devices
 Quantification of inefficiencies and leaks
 Quantification of water quality loads and discharges
 Quantification of variability in flows and quality parameters
 Strategies for water treatment and reuse or direct use

A detailed water balance is finally developed. Water quality requirement at various user areas is
mapped, which helps in developing „recycle‟ and „reuse‟ opportunities.

The detailed water audit report contains the following:

 Water consumption and wastewater generation pattern

 Specific water use and conservation
 Complete water balance of the facility
 Water saving opportunities
 Method of implementing the proposals
 Full description and figures
 Investment required

Industries can undertake following measures for water conservation:

 Setting up of norms for water budgeting
 Modernization of industrial process to reduce water consumption
 Recycling water with a re-circulating cooling system
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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
 Ozonation cooling water approach which can result in five fold reduction in blow down
when compared to traditional chemical treatment
 Reduction in reuse of de-ionized water by eliminating some plenum flushes, converting
from a continuous flow to an intermittent flow system and improving control on the use
 Use of wastewater for use of gardening
 Proper processing of effluents to adhere to the norms of disposal.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure VI

Measures to be adopted to ensure prevention from pollution in the plant premises of

polluting industries/ projects

It has been observed that ground water in and around polluting industries like Tannery,
Slaughter Houses, Dye, Chemical, Coal washery, other hazardous units, etc., is polluted. In
order to prevent further deterioration of ground water quality, it is essential to take all necessary
measures for well head protection. All industries/ projects falling under this category are hereby
directed to follow the under mentioned procedure both for existing and new category.

1. No tube well/ bore well should be constructed in the vicinity of the processing unit. Tube
well/ bore well should be constructed at the place which is hygienically maintained.
2. Only Mild Steel pipe should be used for assembly/ casing and PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride) or
similar pipes should not be used. The tube well/ bore well having PVC or similar pipes
should be abandoned and filled back.
3. Around the tube well/ bore well, RCC (Reinforced Concrete Cement) grouting of 3 meters
(length) x 3 meters (width) x 2 meters (depth) must be provided. The pipe of the tube well/
bore well must be raised 1 meter above ground level (1 magl). The tube well/ bore well must
be surrounded by RCC wall of 0.5 meter height and 1.5 meter depth to prevent any surface
contamination to enter the constructed tube well/ bore well. Plan/Sectional diagram is
enclosed for reference.
4. The tube well/ bore well must be fitted with NRV (Non Return Valve) in order to ensure that
the constructed tube well/ bore well is exclusively used for abstraction of ground water only.
5. At no point of time there should be any injection of any water or fluid into the constructed
tube well/ bore well/ Piezometer.
6. The industries/ projects under this category should not implement any recharge measures
within the plant premises.
7. Any tube well/ bore well located/ constructed in the vicinity of STP (Sewage Treatment
Plant) or ETP (Effluent Treatment Plant) should be abandoned and filled back.
8. The piezometer to be constructed for monitoring purpose should follow the same procedure
as that for tube well/ bore well for such industries/ projects.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure VII
List of 162 areas notified by CGWA
S. No. STATE / UT LOCATION Date of Notification
1 Andhra Pradesh Tirupathi (Rural) Mandal of Chittor 5.12.2005
District
2 Andhra Pradesh Vempalli Mandal of Cuddapah District 5.12.2005
3 Andhra Pradesh Chilmathur Mandal of Anantapur District 27.11.2012
4 Andhra Pradesh Narpala (NC) Mandal of Anantapur 27.11.2012
District
5 Andhra Pradesh Giddaluru Mandal of Prakasam District 27.11.2012
6 Diu Union Territory of Diu 14.10.1998
7 Gujarat Gandhinagar taluka (aquifer below 200 2.09.2000
mbgl declared as notified for meeting
drinking and domestic requirements),
District Gandhinagar
8 Gujarat Kalol taluk of Gandhinagar district 27.11.2012
9 Gujarat Mansa taluk of Gandhinagar district 27.11.2012
10 Gujarat Mahesana taluk of Mahesana district 27.11.2012
11 Haryana Municipal Corporation of Faridabad & 14.10.1998
Ballabhgarh
12 Haryana Shahbad Block of Kurukshetra District 2.12.2006
13 Haryana Nangal Chowdhary Block of 2.12.2006
Mahendragarh District
14 Haryana Narnaul Block of Mahendragarh District 2.12.2006
15 Haryana Samalkha Block of Panipat District 2.12.2006
16 Haryana Karnal Block of Karnal District 2.12.2006
17 Haryana Khol Block of Rewari District 2.12.2006
18 Haryana Entire Gurgaon District 13.08.2011
19 Haryana Badra block of Bhiwani District 13.08.2011
20 Haryana Ladwa block of Kurukshetra District 13.08.2011
21 Haryana Pehowa block of Kurukshetra District 13.08.2011
22 Haryana Rania block of Sirsa District 13.08.2011
23 Haryana Tohana block of Fatehabad District 13.08.2011
24 Haryana Gulha block of Kaithal District 13.08.2011
25 Haryana Bapoli block of Panipath District 13.08.2011
26 Haryana Rajaund block of Kaithal District 27.11.2012
27 Haryana Ellenabad block of Sirsa District 27.11.2012
28 Karnataka Badami taluka of Bagalkote District 27.11.2012
29 Karnataka Bagalkote(P) taluka of Bagalkote District 27.11.2012
30 Karnataka Anekal taluka of Bangalore (U) District 27.11.2012
31 Karnataka Bangalore (N) taluka of Bangalore (U) 27.11.2012
District
32 Karnataka Bangalore (S) taluka of Bangalore (U) 27.11.2012
District

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
33 Karnataka Devanhalli taluka of Bangalore (R) 27.11.2012
District
34 Karnataka Dod Ballapur taluka of Bangalore (R) 27.11.2012
District
35 Karnataka Hoskote taluka of Bangalore (R) District 27.11.2012
36 Karnataka Nelamangala(P) taluka of Bangalore (R) 27.11.2012
District
37 Karnataka Ramdurg taluka of Belgaum District 27.11.2012
38 Karnataka Raybag(P) taluka of Belgaum District 27.11.2012
39 Karnataka Gadag(NC) taluka of Gadag District 27.11.2012
40 Karnataka Bangarapet taluka of Kolar District 27.11.2012
41 Karnataka Chikballapur taluka of Chikballapur 27.11.2012
District
42 Karnataka Chintamani taluka of Chikballapur 27.11.2012
District
43 Karnataka Gauribidanur taluka of Chikballapur 27.11.2012
District
44 Karnataka Gudibanda taluka of Chikballapur 27.11.2012
District
45 Karnataka Malur taluka of Kolar District 27.11.2012
46 Karnataka Mulbagal taluka of Kolar District 27.11.2012
47 Karnataka Sidlaghhatta taluka of Chikballapur 27.11.2012
District
48 Karnataka Koratagere(P) taluka of Tumkur District 27.11.2012
49 Karnataka Madhugiri(P) taluka of Tumkur District 27.11.2012
50 Madhya Pradesh Dhar Block of Dhar District 2.12.2006
51 Madhya Pradesh Manawar Block of Dhar District 2.12.2006
52 Madhya Pradesh Mandsaur Block of Mandsaur District 2.12.2006
53 Madhya Pradesh Sitamau Block of Mandsaur District 2.12.2006
54 Madhya Pradesh Neemuch Block of Neemuch District 2.12.2006
55 Madhya Pradesh Jaora Block of Ratlam District 2.12.2006
56 Madhya Pradesh Indore Municipal Corporation 2.12.2006
57 NCT, Delhi South District 15.08.2000
58 NCT, Delhi South West District 15.08.2000
59 NCT, Delhi Yamuna Flood Plain Area 2.09.2000
60 Puducherry UT Puducherry UT 27.11.2012
61 Punjab Ludhiana City, Ludhiana District 11.12.1998
62 Punjab Moga-I Block of Moga District 2.12.2006
63 Punjab Moga-II Block of Moga District 2.12.2006
64 Punjab Sangrur Block of Sangrur District 2.12.2006
65 Punjab Mahal Kalan Block of Barnala District 2.12.2006
66 Punjab Ahmedgarh Block of Sangrur District 2.12.2006
67 Punjab Nakodar block of Jalandhar District 13.08.2011
68 Punjab Shahkot block of Jalandhar District 13.08.2011

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
69 Punjab Lohian block of Jalandhar District 13.08.2011
70 Punjab Pattran block of Patiala District 13.08.2011
71 Punjab Phagwara block of Kapurthala District 13.08.2011
72 Punjab Nihalsinghwala block of Moga District 13.08.2011
73 Punjab Dhuri block of Sangrur District 13.08.2011
74 Punjab Sunam block of Sangrur District 13.08.2011
75 Punjab Barnala block of Barnala District 13.08.2011
76 Punjab Sherpur block of Sangrur District 13.08.2011
77 Punjab Malerkotla block of Sangrur District 13.08.2011
78 Punjab Khanna block of Ludhiana District 13.08.2011
79 Punjab Ajnala block of Amritsar District 27.11.2012
80 Punjab Patti Block of Taran Taran District 27.12.2012
81 Punjab Taran Taran Block of Taran Taran 27.12.2012
District
82 Punjab Amloh block of Fatehgarh District 27.11.2012
83 Punjab Khamano block of Fatehgarh District 27.11.2012
84 Punjab Khera block of Fatehgarh District 27.11.2012
85 Punjab Tanda block of Hoshiarpur District 27.11.2012
86 Punjab Bhogpur block of Jalandhar District 27.11.2012
87 Punjab Goraya/Rurka kalan block of Jalandhar 27.11.2012
District
88 Punjab Jalandhar east block of Jalandhar District 27.11.2012
89 Punjab Jalandhar west block of Jalandhar 27.11.2012
District
90 Punjab Nurmahal block of Jalandhar District 27.11.2012
91 Punjab Phillaur block of Jalandhar District 27.11.2012
92 Punjab Nadala block of Kapurthala District 27.11.2012
93 Punjab Dhilwan block of Kapurthala District 27.11.2012
94 Punjab Kapurthala block of Kapurthala District 27.11.2012
95 Punjab Sultanpur block of Kapurthala District 27.11.2012
96 Punjab Pakhowal block of Ludhiana District 27.11.2012
97 Punjab Bhikhi block of Mansa District 27.11.2012
98 Punjab Budhlada block of Mansa District 27.11.2012
99 Punjab Sardulgarh block of Mansa District 27.11.2012
100 Punjab Aur block of Nawanshahr District 27.11.2012
101 Punjab Banga block of Nawanshahr District 27.11.2012
102 Punjab Patiala block of Patiala District 27.11.2012
103 Punjab Sanaur block of Patiala District 27.11.2012
104 Punjab Morinda block of Ropar District 27.11.2012
105 Punjab Bhawaniagarh block of Sangrur District 27.11.2012
106 Rajasthan Jhotwara block, Jaipur District 27.11.2012
107 Rajasthan Pushkar Valley, Ajmer District 5.12.2005
108 Rajasthan Jalore block, Jalore District 5.12.2005
109 Rajasthan Raniwara block, Jalore District 5.12.2005

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
110 Rajasthan Budhana block, Jhunjunu District 5.12.2005
111 Rajasthan Chirawa block, Jhunjunu District 5.12.2005
112 Rajasthan Mundwa block, Nagaur District 5.12.2005
113 Rajasthan Surajgarh Block, Jhunjunu District 2.12.2006
114 Rajasthan Dhod Block, Sikar District 2.12.2006
115 Rajasthan Shri Madhopur Block, Sikar District 2.12.2006
116 Rajasthan Behror Block, Alwar District 2.12.2006
117 Rajasthan Bhinmal Block, Jalore District 2.12.2006
118 Rajasthan Rajgarh block of Churu District 13.08.2011
119 Rajasthan Osian block of Jodhpur District 13.08.2011
120 Rajasthan Bhopalgarh block of Jodhpur District 13.08.2011
121 Rajasthan Bilara block of Jodhpur District 13.08.2011
122 Rajasthan Merta block of Nagaur District 13.08.2011
123 Rajasthan Baetu block of Barmer District 13.08.2011
124 Rajasthan Sambher block of Jaipur District 13.08.2011
125 Rajasthan Govindgarh block of Jaipur District 13.08.2011
126 Rajasthan Sanganer block of Jaipur District 13.08.2011
127 Rajasthan Bassi block of Jaipur District 13.08.2011
128 Rajasthan Amer block of Jaipur District 13.08.2011
129 Rajasthan Shahpura block of Jaipur District 13.08.2011
130 Rajasthan Mandore block of Jodhpur District 13.08.2011
131 Rajasthan Sayala block of Jalore District 13.08.2011
132 Rajasthan Sanchore block of Jalore District 13.08.2011
133 Rajasthan Nawalgarh block of Jhunjhunu District 13.08.2011
134 Rajasthan Udaipurwati block of Jhunjhunu District 13.08.2011
135 Rajasthan Jhunjhunu block of Jhunjhunu District 13.08.2011
136 Rajasthan Todabhim block of Karauli District 13.08.2011
137 Rajasthan Pisangan block of Ajmer District 13.08.2011
138 Rajasthan Chittorgarh block of Chittorgarh District 27.11.2012
139 Rajasthan Nimbahera Block of Chittorgarh District 27.11.2012
140 Rajasthan Kuchaman block of Nagaur District 27.11.2012
141 Tamil Nadu Pollachi S block of Coimbatore District 27.11.2012
142 Tamil Nadu Morappur block Dharmapuri District 27.11.2012
143 Tamil Nadu Pappireddipatti block of Dharmapuri 27.11.2012
District
144 Tamil Nadu Usilampatti block of Madauri District 27.11.2012
145 Tamil Nadu Kuttalam block of Nagapattinam District 27.11.2012
146 Tamil Nadu Rasipuram block of Namakkal District 27.11.2012
147 Tamil Nadu Attur-S block of Salem District 27.11.2012
148 Tamil Nadu Gangavalli block of Salem District 27.11.2012
149 Tamil Nadu Panamaruthupatti block of Salem District 27.11.2012
150 Tamil Nadu Talaivasal block of Salem District 27.11.2012
151 Tamil Nadu Veerapandi block of Salem Distict 27.11.2012
152 Tamil Nadu Chengam block of Tiruvannamalai 27.11.2012

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
District
153 Tamil Nadu Valangaiman block of Tiruvarur District 27.11.2012
154 Tamil Nadu Udangudi block of Thoothukudi District 27.11.2012
155 Tamil Nadu Gudiyatham block of Vellore District 27.11.2012
156 Tamil Nadu Jolarpet block of Vellore District 27.11.2012
157 Tamil Nadu Pernampet block of Vellore District 27.11.2012
158 Tamil Nadu Tiruppathur block of Vellore District 27.11.2012
159 Telangana Midjil Mandal of Mahabubnagar District 5.12.2005
160 Telangana Vailpoor (NC) Mandal of Nizamabad 27.11.2012
District
161 Uttar Pradesh Municipal Corporation of Ghaziabad, 04.04.1998
Ghaziabad District
162 West Bengal Haldia Industrial complex (aquifer below 15.08.2000
120 mbgl), Haldia, district East
Medinipur

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

Annexure VIII
Guidelines For Installation of Piezometers and Monitoring of Ground
Water Levels and quality

Piezometer is a borewell/ tubewell used only for measuring the water level by lowering
the tape/sounder or automatic water level measuring equipment. It is also used to take
water sample for water quality testing whenever needed. General guidelines for
installation of piezometers are as follows for compliance of NOC:

 The piezometer is to be installed/constructed at the minimum of 50 m distance

from the pumping well through which ground water is being withdrawn. The
diameter of the piezometer should be about 4” to 6”.
 The depth of the piezometer should be same as in case of the pumping well from
which ground water is being abstracted. If, more than one piezometer are installed
the second piezometer should monitor the shallow ground water regime. It will
facilitate shallow as well as deeper ground water aquifer monitoring.
 The measuring frequency should be monthly and accuracy of measurement should
be up to cm. The reported measurement should be given in meter upto two
decimal.
 For measurement of water level, sounder or Automatic Water Level Recorder
(AWLR) with telemetry system should be used for accuracy.
 The measurement of water level in piezometer should be taken, only after the
pumping from the surrounding tubewells has been stopped for about four to six
hours.
 All the details regarding coordinates, reduced level (with respect to mean level),
depth, zone tapped and assembly lowered should be provided for bringing the
piezometer into the National Hydrograph Monitoring System of Central Ground
Water Board, and for its validation.
 The ground water quality has to be monitored twice in a year during pre-monsoon
(May/June) and post-monsoon (October/November) periods. Quality may be got
analyzed from NABL accredited lab. Besides, one sample (1 lt capacity bottle) of
ground water collected during pre-monsoon after proper packing may be sent to
the concerned Regional Director, Central Ground Water Board, for chemical
analysis.
 A permanent display board should be installed at Piezometer/ Tubewell site
providing the location, piezometer/ tubewell number, depth and zone tapped of
piezometer/tubewell for standard referencing and identification.
 Any other site specific requirement regarding safety and access for measurement
may be taken care off.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

Annexure IX
Outline of Compliance Report while submitting the Application for Renewal of NOC

Compliance report to be submitted along with application for renewal after receipt of NOC from CGWA
should include:

1. Brief about the project with photographs if any.

2. Location details, coordinates, google/ toposheet maps, etc. demarcating the project area.
3. Compliance of conditions laid down in the NOC.
4. Details of the tubewells/ borewells constructed as per the NOC. This includes the drilling depth,
diameter, lithological log, details of pump lowered, H.P. of pump, discharge of tubewells/ borewells, etc.
Locations to be marked on the site plan/ map. Photographs of the existing/ constructed tubewells/
borewells.

S.No. Activity Details of existing/ constructed structures

1 Drilling depth(m) Includes the type of rig deployed
2 Diameter (mm) Details of pipe lowered, etc.
3 Lithological log Tabular form/ diagram of the formation encountered along
with aquifers encountered
4 Details of pump lowered Type of pump and HP, lowered at what depth
5 Discharge of tube wells / bore Yield of the well
wells etc. (m3/hour)
6 Operational time (hrs./ day) Average pumping hours per day
7 Location of wells Coordinates (to be marked on site map)
8 Photographs Photographs of the existing/ constructed tubewells/
borewells

5. Photographs of digital water meters on the constructed wells by the firm. Monthly data indicating the
quantum of ground water withdrawal.
S.No. Month Meter reading on 1st Meter reading on Water Average
day of the month last day of the consumption water
month during the month consumption
(m3/ month) per day (m3/
day)

6. Ground water quality data of samples collected during April/ May and November for the tubewells/
borewells and piezometers constructed within the project area.

7. Monthly Water level data for the piezometers constructed within the project area.

8. Details of artificial recharge & rainwater harvesting measures implemented by the firm with details
indicating designs, type & number of recharge structures/ shafts; quantum of water recharged per
annum; impact of recharge; photographs of the constructed recharge structures, etc.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India

9. Measures adopted for water conservation including recycle, reuse, treatment, etc. This includes balance
chart being adopted by the firm along with details of water conservation methods adopted by the firm
including photographs of the same.

- Brief write up along with capacity and flow chart of STP/ ETP/ CEPT existing within the project.
- Details of water conservation measures adopted to reduce/ save the ground water.
- Total water balance chart showing the usage of water for various processes.
- Photographs of the STP/ ETP implemented along with its optimal utilization.

10. Installation of piezometers (with photographs) with details indicating design, depth diameter, lithology,
etc. along with monitoring schedule.

S.No. Details PZ-1 PZ-2 PZ-3

1 Location Coordinates with layout plan showing the locations
2 Depth (m)
3 Diameter
4 lithology Tabular form/ diagram of the formation encountered along
with aquifers encountered
5 Monitoring Monthly Monthly Monthly
schedule
6 Photographs Photographs showing measurement of water levels

11. Water Security Plan of villages.

12. Plantation of trees for enhancing infiltration of water to underground.
13. Copy of NOC from CGWA.
14. Any other details pertaining to compliance of NOC.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
Annexure X

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF INDIA

CIVIL ORIGINAL JURISDICTION
WRIT PETITION (c) NO. 36 OF 2009

In Re:

Measures for prevention of fatal accidents of small children due to their falling into abandoned
bore wells and tube wells

Union of India and Ors. Respondents(s)

ORDER
With this Court issuing requisite guidelines vide order dated 11th February, 2010, subject to
slight modifications, nothing survives in the present writ petition.

That modification is as follows:

(i) The owner of the land/ premises, before taking any steps for constructing bore well/ tube
well must inform in writing to the concerned authorities in the area, i.e., District Collector/
District Magistrate/ Sarpanch of the Gram Panchayat/ any other Statutory Authority/
concerned officers of the Department of Ground Water/ Public Health/ Municipal
Corporation, as the case may be , about the construction of bore well/ tube well.

(ii) Registration of all the drilling agencies, namely, Government/ Semi Government, Private
etc. should be mandatory with the district administration/ Statutory Authority wherever
applicable.

(iii) Erection of signboard at the time of construction near the well with the following details:-

(a) Complete address of the drilling agency at the time of construction/ rehabilitation of
well.
(b) Complete address of the user agency/ owner of the well.

(iv) Erection of barbed wire fencing or any other suitable barrier around the well during
construction.

(v) Construction of cement/ concrete platform measuring 0.50x0.50x0.60 meter (0.30 meter
above ground level and 0.30 meter below ground level) around the well casing.

(vi) Capping of well assembly by welding steel plate or by providing a strong cap to be fixed to
the casing pipe with bolts & nuts.

(vii) In case of pump repair, the tube well should not be left uncovered.

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Central Ground Water Authority, Government of India
(viii) Filling of mud pits and channels after completion of works.

(ix) Filling up abandoned bore wells by clay/ sand/ boulders/ pebbles/ drill cuttings etc. from
bottom to ground level.

(x) On completion of the drilling operations at a particular location, the ground conditions are
to be restored as before the start of drilling.

(xi) District Collector should be empowered to verify that the above guidelines are being
followed and proper monitoring check about the status of bore holes/ tube wells are being
taken care through the concerned state/ Central Government agencies.

(xii) District/ Block/ Village wise status of bore wells/ tube wells drilled viz. No. of wells in
use, No. of abandoned bore wells/ tube wells found open, No. of abandoned bore wells/
tube wells properly filled up to ground level and balance number of abandoned bore wells/
tube wells to be filled up to ground level is to be maintained at District Level.
In rural areas, the monitoring of the above is to be done through Village Sarpanch and the
Executive from the Agriculture Department.
In case of urban areas, the monitoring of the above is to be done through Junior Engineer
and the Executive from the concerned Department of Ground Water / Public Health/
Municipal Corporation etc.

(xiii) If a bore well/ tube well is „Abandoned‟ at any stage, a certificate from the concerned
department of Ground Water/ Public Health/ Municipal Corporation/ Private Contractor
etc. must be obtained by the aforesaid agencies that the „Abandoned‟ bore well/ tube well
is properly filled upto the ground level. Random inspection of the abandoned wells is also
to be done by the Executive of the concerned agency/ department. Information on all such
data on the above are to b maintained in the District Collector/ Block Development Office
of the State.

We are informed that the last paragraph of the earlier order dated 11th February, 2010,
concerning publicity has been duly complied with.

Subject to the above, the writ petition is disposed of.

……………………………..CJI.
[S.H. KAPADIA]

…………………………….….J.
[K.S. RADHAKRISHNANA]

………………………….…….J.
[SWATANTER KUMAR]
New Delhi,
August 6, 2010

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