GOVERNMENT OF INDIA

MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES

CENTRAL GROUND WATER BOARD

GROUND WATER INFORMATION BOOKLET

BELLARY DISTRICT, KARNATAKA STATE

SOUTH WESTERN REGION

BANGALORE
AUGUST 2012
 GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES

CENTRAL GROUND WATER BOARD

GROUND WATER INFORMATION BOOKLET

BELLARY DISTRICT, KARNATAKA STATE

SOUTH WESTERN REGION

BANGALORE
AUGUST 2012
 Foreword
Groundwater is an essential component of the environment and economy. It sustains
the flow in our rivers and plays an important role in maintaining the fragile
ecosystems. The groundwater dependence of agrarian states like Karnataka is high.
Recent studies indicate that 26 percent of the area of Karnataka State is under over
exploited category and number of blocks is under critical category. In view of the
growing concerns of sustainability of ground water sources, immediate attention is
required to augment groundwater resources in stressed areas. Irrigated agriculture in
the state is putting additional stress on the groundwater system and needs proper
management of the resources.

Central Ground Water Board is providing all technical input for effective management
of ground water resources in the state. The groundwater scenario compiled on
administrative divisions gives a better perspective for planning various ground water
management measures by local administrative bodies. With this objective, Central
Ground Water Board is publishing the revised groundwater information booklet for all
the districts of the state.

I do appreciate the efforts of Dr. K.Md.Najeeb, Regional Director and his fleet of
dedicated Scientists of South Western Region, Bangalore for bringing out this
booklet. I am sure these brochures will provide a portrait of the groundwater
resources in each district for planning effective management measures by the
administrators, planners and the stake holders.

Dr. S. C. Dhiman
 PREFACE

Ground water contributes to about eighty percent of the drinking water requirements
in the rural areas, fifty percent of the urban water requirements and more than fifty
percent of the irrigation requirements of the nation. Central Ground Water Board has
decided to bring out district level ground water information booklets highlighting the
ground water scenario, its resource potential, quality aspects, recharge – discharge
relationship, vulnerability area etc., for all the districts of the country. As part of this,
Central Ground Water Board, South Western Region, Bangalore, is preparing such
booklets for all the 30 districts of Karnataka state, incorporating the data up to the
period 2011-12.

The Bellary District Ground Water Information Booklet has been prepared based on
the information available and data collected from various state and central
government organisations by several hydro-scientists of Central Ground Water
Board with utmost care and dedication. This booklet has been prepared by Shri
L.J.Balachandra, Scientist-C, Central Ground Water Board, South Western Region,
Bangalore. The figures were prepared by Sri. J. Sivaramakrishnan, Assistant
Hydrogeologist and the rainfall data provided by Shri H.P.Jayaprakash Scientist-C.
The efforts of Report processing section in finalising and bringing out the report in
this format are commendable

I take this opportunity to congratulate them for the diligent and careful compilation
and observation in the form of this booklet, which will certainly serve as a guiding
document for further work and help the planners, administrators, academicians,
hydrogeologists and engineers to plan and manage the water resources in a better
way in the district.
.

sd/-

(Dr. K.Md.Najeeb)
Regional Director
 BELLARY DISTRICT AT A GLANCE

Sl. Items Statistics

No.
1 General Information
i. Geographical area (sq. km) 8420
ii. Administrative Divisions 1
iii. Number of Taluks 7 (Bellary, Hadagali, H.B.Halli, Hospet,
Kudlugi, Sandur & Siruguppa.)
iv. No. of Panchayats /Villages : 189/554(524 Inhabited+30 uninhabited)
v. Population (As on 2011 Census) 25,32,383
vi Annual normal rain fall (2001-2010) 671.57 mm
2 Geomorphology
Major Physiographic Units Northern maidan region, monotonous,
treeless and expansive plateau
landscape. Sandur hills are the main
physical features dividing the district
into eastern and western parts. The
principal hill ranges are Kumaraswamy
hills, Ramanmalai, and Jambunatha
hills. The highest peaks of the hills are
in kumaraswamy hills with 1084m amsl.
The average altitude of the district is
493.71m amsl.
Major Drainage Drained by Tungahadra river, which
runs along the border and forms the
boundary of the district for about 300
kms. Chikkahagari & Hagari/Vedavathy
are tributaries drains south to north of
the district. The drainage pattern is
dendritic to subdendritic.
3 Land use (ha)
Forest area (District at a glance 2009-10) 97017
Net area sown (District at a glance 9-10) 436077
4 Major soil types Sandy loam soil along the stream beds,
Red soil in elevated places, black soil in
irrigated land and in other parts.
5 Area under principal crops Crop Area
(2009-2010) in ha Paddy 120414
Maize 100517
Bajra 14083
Jower 55548
Ragi 3449
Wheet 1174
Total cereals 295185
Gram 45705
Tur 8938
Other pulses 11299

I
 Total Pulses 65942
Sun flower 67595
G. nut 70932
Others 5132
Total oil seeds 143659
Cotton 25269
Sugar cane 3923
Tobacco 466
Others 3171
Total Cash crops 32829
6 Irrigation by different sources (Minor Number Area (ha)
irrigation census-2001)

Dug wells 1232 7159

Bore wells 22137 53256
Tanks/ Ponds - 2054
Canals 2+Branch canals 79706
Lift 5345 11943
Other Sources - 7115
Net Irrigated Area (ha) 188359
Total sown area (ha) 273298
7 Number of ground water monitoring
stations of CGWB (as on 31-03-2009)
Number Dug wells 37
Number of Piezometers 23 (10 VRB project+13 Hydrology
Project)
8 Predominant geological formations The major geological formation is
granitic gneiss, Younger granites and
schist. Recent alluvium along the river
course.
9 Hydrogeology
Major Water Bearing Formations
Shallow aquifers of alluvium along the stream courses up to 10m and weathered
zones of gneisses Granites and occur between the depths of 9 to 25m bgl.
Deeper aquifers of jointed and fractured gneisses, granites and Schists occur
between the depths of 30 to 197 m bgl.
Pre-monsoon Water Levels during 2011 1.61 – 12.05 m bgl (average 5.30m)

Post-monsoon Water Levels during 2006 1.26– 13.20 m bgl (average 5.40m)

Long term water level NHS From National Hydrograph Stations

trends (Dug wells) (NHS) water levels have shown rising
(2002-2011) in m/year: trend in the range of 0.013 to 0.967 &
average rise of 0.297 m/year, while at 2
NH Stations water levels have recorded
falling trend in the range of 0.017 to
0.071 with the average of 0.044 m/year.

II
 NHS At four National Hydrograph Stations
(Piezometers) (Piezometers) water levels have shown
rising trend in the range of 0.040 to
2.085 with the average of 0.568 m/year,
at one piezometer water level have
shown falling trend to the tune of 0.018
m/year.
10 Ground water exploration by C.G.W.B. (as on 31-03-2007)
No of wells drilled-VRB Project EW: 47, OW: 12, PZ: 12
Regular exploration EW:21, OW: 12
program (2001 to
2003) PZ:13
Hydrology project
Depth range-VRB Project 09 to 90 m bgl
Regular exploration 181 to 197m bgl
program (2001 to
2003)
Discharge- VRB Project 0.22 to 11.20 litres / second
Regular exploration 0.00 to 5 litres / second
program (2001 to 2003)
Transmissivity (Overall) 1 to 350 m2 / day
11. Ground water quality
Presence of chemical constituents more Chemical quality of Ground water is
than the permissible limit suitable for all purposes in major parts
of the district with low sodium type of
ground water except in few pockets
where Nitrate & Chloride concentration
is high in few pockets (parts of Hospet,
Siruguppa, Hadagali & south of Kudlugi
taluks). SAR ranged 0.1 to 9.4 and %
Sodium ranged from 27.47 to 75.37.
Type of water Low sodium type
12. Dynamic Ground Water Resources (ham) (2009)
Net Annual Ground Water Availability 65277 ham
Existing gross Ground Water Draft for all 28572ham
use
Projected demand for Domestic and 6502 ham
Industrial uses up to 2025
Stage of Ground Water development as 43.77
on March 2004 (%)
13. Awareness and Training Activity
Mass Awareness Programmes 1 at Bellary
organised
Water Management Training Nil
Programmes organised:
14. Efforts of artificial recharge & rain water harvesting
Projects completed by CGWB Nil
(No and amount spent)

III
 Projects under technical guidance of Nil
C.G.W.B (numbers)
15. Ground water control and regulation
Number of OE Blocks Nil
Number of Critical blocks Nil
Number of blocks notified Nil
16. Major ground water problems and Water logging conditions in
issues Tungabhadra command areas
especially in Tungabhadra low level and
high level canal area which are showing
rising water level trends, salinity due to
water logging and soil deterioration due
to intensive irrigation and extensive use
of fertilizers. Power cut, shortage/
fluctuation is another burning issue in
lifting available ground water.

IV
 BELLARY DISTRICT

1.0. INTRODUCTION

1.1. General
The new Bellary district was formed in 1997. It is famous for its world heritage site at
Hampi as listed in UNESCO, which has splendid ruins of ancient city/capital of
Vijayanagar spread in an area of 26sq. kms. on right bank of Tungabhadra river.
Tungabhadra River forms the natural boundary dividing the district on the west from
Dharwar and on the north the Raichur district. Agriculture is the main occupation
and 75% of the labour force is dependent on agriculture. Bellary district consists of
two widely differing natural divisions-the eastern division is flat and almost treeless,
Western division with constant succession of wild, rugged hills and comparatively
having high elevation.

The population in the district is around 25, 32,383 (as per 2011 census), out of which
rural population is 1613038 (63.70%). The density of population is 300 per square
kilometres. The Scheduled caste population is 18.5 percent and Scheduled tribe
population is 18.00 percent. The sex ratio is 978 females for every one thousand
males. The irrigation in the district is mainly is from surface water source wherein
about 61.67 % (District at a glsnce-2009-10) of the area is irrigated from canals,
tanks, and lift irrigation. However about 35.06% of the total irrigated area is coming
from ground water source mainly through bore wells followed by open wells
respectively. The district falls in Krishna river basin. The area sown was 438594ha
(2006-2007 Minor irrigation census) out of which 124056 hectares (28.28%) is
irrigated. The district is bestowed with good surface water resources provided by
rivers, canals, and tanks. The river Tungabhadra is having good potential for
multipurpose, major, medium and minor irrigation projects. The water of
Tungabhadra are reputed for its sweetness and made use for water supply. The total
number of minor irrigation schemes in the district is about 28883 covering 549
villages in the district. Out of 28883, 1232 are dug wells, 22137 are shallow tube
wells, 169 are surface flow structures and 5345 are lift irrigation indicating surface
water as main source of irrigation.

1.2. Location
The district Bellary is elongated from south-west to north-east and is located in the
eastern part of the Karnataka state and lies between the north latitude 140 30’ : 150
47’ east longitude 750 40’ : 770 11’. The geographical area of the district is about
8420 Sq.kms. The district is having south-west to north-east spread of about 186.7
kms. And east west spread of 161 kms respectively. Physiographically it is occupied
by hills in the central part with plains on the east and west. Bellary district is
bounded on the north by Koppal and Raichur districts, on the west by Gadag and
Haveri district, on the south by Davanagere and Chitradurga districts of Karnataka
state and on the east by Anantapur and Kurnool districts of Andrapradesh. The
Sandoor hills are the main physical features in the district which starts from
Mallapuram on the bank of Tungabhadra and runs 48 kms in the south easterly
direction up to Bellary. A map showing administrative set-up of the district is given in
figure-1.
2
1.3. Administrative set up
The district comprises of seven taluks namely Bellary, Hadagali, H.B.Halli, Hospet,
Kudlugi, Sandur and Siruguppa. Among the seven taluks Bellary taluk is the largest
having an area of 1689sq kms. This is 20% of the total area of the district. Hospet
taluk is the smallest with total geographical area of 934 sq. kms. The district is
having one revenue sub division at district head quarter at Bellary (Figure-1).

1.4 Communication
The district is well connected by high ways and other main roads. Fairly good
network of roads exists connecting taluk head quarters with the district head quarters
and hoblis to various taluk head quarter. Total there are 181.0 kms of NH,
996.38kms of SH, 1031.54 kms of major district roads and village road length of
2853.0 kms serves as communication system. Added to this the South Central
railway line (Hubli-Guntakal) passes through Hospet and Bellary. Overall 310 kms
length of railway roads falling in all the taluks except in Hadagali and Siruguppa
taluks adds the communication network.

1.5 Drainage
The district falls in Krishna basin. The Tungabhadra perennial river forms major
drainage system in Bellary district. Chikka Hagari and Hagari/Vedavathi are the
tributaries of Tungabhadra which runs south to north from the southern tip of the
district. These are seasonal rivers flows during monsoon season. Chikkahagari
River originates in Guddada Ranganahills near chitradurga and drains into bellary
district and flows south to north and joins Tungabhadra at Mallapuram after a travel
of 64 kms in the district. A Medium irrigation project across this river exists at Malavi
in H.B.Halli taluk. Hagari/Vedavathy the other tributary originates near Mallaianagiri
hills in chikmagalur distyrict and enters the eastern part of the Bellary district and
drains Hadagali and Kudlugi taluks before joining to Tungabhadra after travelling 92
kms at Bagavadi village in Siruguppa taluk. Number of minor streams which rises
locally and ultimately drains into Tungabhadra. Naarihalla is one among them which
is damed (medium irrigation project) at Taranagar in Sandur taluk useful for irrigation
in the taluk. The drainage in the district is dendritic to sub-dendritic in nature. Dense
drainage is noticed in the eastern and western part of the district and sparse
drainage is noticed in the central part. The drainage analysis in Hagari, Garanihalla,
Chinnahagari and Vedavathy river/stream indicates that the length of the streams
ranged from 96 to 172 sq.kms. and the drainage area ranged from 3522 to 7329
sq.kms. with 5th and 6th order stream. The drainage map of the district is in the
figure-2.

3
4
1.6 Crops and irrigation practices
As per 2009-2010 ‘district at a glance’ publication, 86.95% of land holdings are
having less than 4ha, which is about 56.56% of the total area. The major crops
grown are the cereals with an area 295185ha which comprise Paddy (40.79%),
Maize (34.05%), Jower (18.81%), and Bajra (4.77%) are the major cereals. This
follows the cash crops in an area of 28906ha in which cotton and sugarcane are the
major crops. This follows oil seeds with an area of 143659ha in which groundnut is
the major crop. Lastly pulses with an area of 65942ha in which other pulses and
gram are the major crops. The net sown area comprises 53.62% of the total
geographical area, in which 30.63% of the area is being sown more than once. As
per the records about 26.00% of the net sown area is irrigated through surface water
source, and about 15.87 of the area are irrigated through groundwater. The surface
water irrigation practices is mainly through canals with the total length of 456 kms
from T.B. major irrigation project and two medium irrigation projects
(Hagaribommanahalli and Naarihalla) with the other surface water sources like tanks
and lift irrigation. As per the minor irrigation census records (2006-2007), the district
has 28883 minor irrigation schemes, of which 1232 pertains to dug wells, 22137
schemes pertains to shallow tube wells, 169 surface water flow schemes and 5345
lift irrigation schemes.

1.7 Activities carried out by CGWB

Bellary district had been covered under Vedavathi River Basin Project studies during
1971 to 1980. The main objective of this project was to improve the methodology of
Ground Water Resources Evaluation and to establish parametric indices for optimum
development of scarce ground water resources and to bring out necessary user
maps. Under this project 47 exploratory wells, 12 observation wells and 10
pizometers were constructed. The depth of the wells ranges between 27 and 97 m
with water bearing fractures between the depths from 16 to 36m and from 64 to 95m.
The discharge range between 0.22 to 11.20 lps. Central Ground Water Board has
carried out Systematic Hydrogeological surveys, Reappraisal Hydrogeological
surveys and Groundwater Exploration in the district. The deep drilling up to 200m
depth was carried out under Ground Water Exploration program during 2001 to
2003. Overall 21 Exploratory wells and 12 Observation wells and one pizometer
were drilled. The groundwater exploration revealed the existence of potential zones
at deeper depths, between 181 and 197m with discharge up to 5lps. Total 13
numbers of piezometers were constricted in the district during 1998-99 for
continuous water level monitoring. Besides this, Central Ground Water Board
maintains a good network of observation wells (NHS) in the district, which are
monitored periodically to keep a close vigil on the water level variations.

2.0 RAINFALL AND CLIMATE

The climate of Bellary district is quite moderate and is dry in major part of the year
with a hot summer from March to May. June to September is the southwest
monsoon period with temperature in the range of 19.7°C to 35.1°C. October and
November represents the post monsoon retreating monsoon season with clear bright
weather with the mean daily temperature ranging from 14.4°C to 31.1°C. During
December to February weather remains dry and comparatively cool season. The
clouded sky or overcast is observed during southwest monsoon. During October
and November some of the depressions and cyclonic storms originates in Bay of

5
Bengal moving in a westerly to north westerly direction which passes through the
district causing wide spread heavy rains and high winds. The mean maximum
temperature in the district is 40.4°C. and the mean minimum temperature is 14.3°C
(January month). Relative humidity ranges from 48 to 74% in the morning and in the
evening it ranges from 27% to 61%. The winds are light to moderate with some
strengthening during the south west monsoon. During October to April, the winds
blow from directions between north east and south east and are calm in the morning.
Winds blows southwest and northwest direction during May to September with an
average velocity of 12 kmph. These high winds combined with higher temperature
result in high degree of evaporation to the tune of 12.5 mm/day in May against a
minimum of 5.4 mm/day in the month of December.

Bellary district receives rainfall from southwest monsoon from June to September
and northeast monsoon from October to December. Overall, on an average, there
are 43 normal rainy days (1901-1970), where minimum in Bellary taluk with 33 rainy
days, maximum in Sandur taluk with 56 rainy days. Actual rainy days recorded
during the year 2009 ranged from 41 to 57. Whereas in Bellary taluk it is the
minimum with 41 rainy days and the maximum is in Sandur taluk with 57 rainy days.
As per 20years rainfall data analysis, the precipitation during southwest monsoon
accounts for 60% of the total rainfall and during northeast monsoon it is 24% and the
remaining 11.62% is sporadic during summer season. September is the wettest
month in the year. The analysis of the last ten years rainfall data (2001-2010) shows
that the highest rainfall occurred in Sandur taluk with 831mm and the lowest at
Bellary with 566mm and over all annual normal rain fall in the district is 671.57mm.
Deficiency in rainfall is observed in the four taluks for the last ten years in the range
of 7.67% (Kudlugi taluk) to 15.72% (Bellary taluk). and excess rainfall is observed in
the range of 9.14% (Hospet taluk) to 23.73% (Sandur taluk).

3.0 GEOMORPHOLOGY AND SOIL TYPES

The district may be classified as Northern Maidan region with monotonous, treeless,
and expansive plateau landscape. The step like landscape, hills and ridges are the
general features of the northern maidan region. The central part of Bellary district is
occupied by hills with plains on either side of the hill range in the east and west. The
Sandur hills run North West of the district dividing the district in to two distinct parts.
The eastern part consists of Hospet, Bellary and Siruguppa taluks. The western part
consists of Hadagalli, Hagaribommanahalli, Kudlugi and Sandur taluks. The
Tungabhadra River forms the eastern and northern boundary of the district. The
average elevation of the district is 493.71m amsl. The Sandur hills are the main
physical features with valley and its lush green forest. It extends from Mallapuram
on the bank of river Tungabhadra and runs for 48 kms in the south easterly direction
up to Bellary. The highest elevation in the ridge is the famous Kumaraswamy hills
which is 1084m amsl. Ramanmalai (993.1m amsl) and jambunatha hill (908 m amsl)
are the major ridges in the district. The other ridges in the district are Ramagod
(1058 m amsl) and Donimalai (1027m amsl). Some of the isolated peaks in the
district are Kallahalli gudda (836m amsl), Narasimhadevaragudda (775 m amsl),
Gudekote (836m amsl) and Bellary hills (602m amsl). The sandur hills, the
mallappanagudi and kallahalli gudda ranges are of dharwar schists while the rest of
the hills are of older granitic formation.

6
The soils of the district are derived from Granites, Gneisses and Schistose rocks.
The Sandy loam soil mixed with black and grey soils occurs along the stream beds.
These are originated from gneisses and granites. They are permeable and mildly
alkaline in nature. The thickness of the soil varies from 0.2 to 1.00m. The Red soil
are the major type of soil in the district, found mainly at elevated places especially
along fringes of hills due to decomposition of rocks and surrounding granitic and
gneissic hills. These soils are with high permeability and neutral PH. Black soil with
high initial infiltration rate when dry and cracked on getting wet cracks will close and
infiltration rate will be very low. These are derived from schistose rocks. The Black
soil is found in the prolonged submerged areas and canal command areas having
low Permeability. It is calcareous and mildly alkaline in nature.

4.0 GROUND WATER SCENARIO

4.1 Hydrogeology
Hydrogeologically, the district forms a part of hard rock terrain comprising granitic
gneiss, younger granites and schistose formation of Archean age. The alluvium
occurring in old river course and in flood plains of granitic and gneissic terrain, which
are noticed in Hagari river course in Kudlugi, Bellary and Siruguppa taluks. The dug
wells constructed in these areas tap alluvial aquifers with perporated cement ring
and are generally fitted centrifugal pumps. Even cavity wells were noticed near
kottur area. The granitic gneiss and gneissic granite which form major aquifers in
the district recorded a weathered and semi weathered zone up to 25m. Schistose
formation has weathered formation with less granular and fracture openings than
granites and gneisses. Occurrence and movement of ground water are controlled by
the degree of weathering, fracturing and the geomorphologic set up in the area. The
hydrogeological details of the district are presented in figure-3.

4.2.1 Occurrence of ground water

Groundwater occurs under phreatic and semi confined conditions in weathered and
fractured rocks. The principal rock types are granites, gneisses, and schist which has
no primary porosity but possess fractures and joints as secondary porosity that forms
water bearing and yielding properties of these rocks. Ground water in the above rock
formations have potential aquifers with fracture down to the depth of 138mbgl in the
gneissic and granitic rocks. Whereas, schistose rocks holds less potential zones due
to its compactness and clay filled fracture zones. Alluvial aquifers with the thickness
up to 25 m yields copious water as observed in wells at PD halli. The deep-seated
fracture is common in the depth range of 80 to 110m along major lineaments. The
principal source of recharge is rainfall. In command areas seepage from reservoirs
canals and percolation from applied irrigation water form additional recharge
sources.

4.2.2 Depth to water level

Out of 22 National Hydrograph Stations (NHS-dug wells) located in Bellary district,
the depth to water levels recorded during May-2011 was in the range of 1.61 to
12.05m bgl. The depths to water levels recorded during post monsoon period
(November 2011) were in the range of 1.26 to 13.20m bgl. The average depth to
water level during pre-monsoon is 5.30m and in post monsoon it is 5.40m. The pre-
monsoon and post-monsoon depth to water levels is depicted in Figure-4 and
Figure-5. Further the depth to water level between 0.00 to 5.00m in both pre and

7
post monsoon periods were observed in parts of Hospet taluk, most of the part of
Siruguppa taluk and in some parts of west and North West of Bellary in Bellary taluk
due to Tungabhadra canal irrigation activity. The major portion of the district shows
5.00 to 10.00m water level during May as well as November 2011. The major part of
Kudlugi taluk, part of Hadagali and sandur taluk and east of Bellary taluk is covered
either with hill ranges or partly bad land topography. Such areas are left out for want
of sufficient control over the water level data. In the remaining part, due to uneven
topography, the depth to water level changes within short distance. The water levels
in 9-piezometers ranged from 3.68 to 32.51m bgl during May 2011 and 2.27 to
34.56m bgl during November 2011.

4.2.3 Seasonal water level fluctuation

Consequent upon seasonal rainfall, the water levels record a rise indicating the build
up of storage in ground water reservoir. During the non-monsoon period, this gets
depleted due to exploitation and natural discharge. Therefore, the water levels, in
general show a receding trend from December to May. The seasonal water level
fluctuation for the year 2011 is available for 21dug well national hydrograph network
stations. Where 52.38% of the NH Stations have shown a rise in water level in the
range of 0.15 to 1.89 m and 47.71 percent of the stations have recorded a fall in
water levels in the range of 0.21 to 4.27m. The seasonal water level fluctuation for
the year 2011 is available for 9 piezometer hydrograph network stations, where rise
in water level in 5 piezometers in the range of 0.46m to 6.61 m and fall in water level
at 4 pizometers in the range of 0.10 to 2.07 m is observed. The average water level
fluctuation in pizometers during 2011 is 2.27m and average fall is 1.39m. The water
level fluctuation in May 2001 and November 2011 with respect to decadal means of
the same periods is given in figure 6 and 7.

4.2.4 Long-term water level trend

The long term water level trend is analyzed in 37 NH Stations for the period from
2002 to 2011, where 35 stations have shown rising trends in the range of 0.013m/y
to 0.967 m/y and the average rise in water levels is 0.297 m/y. Similarly falling
trends were observed in 2 national hydrograph network stations in the range of
0.071m/y to 0.204 m/y with an average fall of 0.137 m/y. The average maximum rise
in water levels over the years is observed in hadagali taluk is 0.493 m/y and the least
0.155 m/y in Bellary taluk. Maximum fall in water levels are observed in Siruguppa
taluk with 1.204 m/y and minimum fall is in Sandur taluk with 0.071 m/y. Similarly
the water level trend in 13 piezometers over the years for the period 2002 to 2011
show rise in water level in all 12 piezometers in the range of 0.040 to 2.085m/y with
the average rise in water level is 0.568 m/y. Similarly fall in water level in 1
piezometer with 0.018m/y.

The last ten years (2001 to 2010) Pre monsoon water level data indicates that mean
pre monsoon water level is in the range of 1.457m to 15.868m with an average of
6.369m. However, rise in pre monsoon water level were observed in 20 stations in
the range of 0.003m/y to 0.722 m/y with an average of rise of 0.255 m/y. Further fall
in pre monsoon water levels were observed at 1 station with 0.603 m/y. Similarly the
mean post monsoon water levels in the district for the last ten years are in the range
of 1.722m to 12.573m. However rise in water levels in 29 stations are in the range of
0.006 m/y to 1.323 m/y with an average rise of 0.364 m/y.

8
9
Fig 4
 Fig 5

2
Fig-6
Fig 7
4.2.5 Aquifer systems encountered in the area
The study of aquifer geometry and parameters have been attempted in Bellary
district by Central Ground Water Board, South Western Region, Bangalore, under its
systematic and reappraisal hydrogeological surveys, ground water exploration
programme and in Vedavathy River Basin Project through drilling exploratory bore
wells at select places. Overall 18 exploratory wells, 2 observation wells, 11
piezometers and 28 water table wells were drilled in VRB project. And in regular
exploratory drilling program between 2000 and 2003, 21 exploratory wells, 12
observation wells were constructed in seven taluks of the district. The aquifer zones
are weathered / fractured & jointed granites, gneisses and schists occurring at
various depths from 7to 197m bgl.

The aquifer geometry in shallow zone is limited to 25 m, it has exploited through dug
wells from the weathered mantle of the formation. The dug well has shown the
specific capacity ranges from 0.50 to 727.86m3/day/m/dd. The transmissivity in
granites/gneiss ranged from 0.24 to 292.38m2/day. The findings of VRB project
indicates the fractured rock transmissivity ranged from 50 to 350m2/day and
fractured block transmissivity is ranged from 40 to 50m2/day. In schistose formation
it ranged from 1 to70 m2/day. The gross storativity of the fractured block is of the
magnitude of 10-3 in granites and 10-4 in schist.

The exploratory bore wells drilled in the district where depths ranging from 96 to
200.00m bgl (Figure-8). The discharge ranges from <1.0 to 8.20 lps. The yield-cum-
recuperation tests conducted on the wells show that the drawdown range of 1.20m to
30.61m, Specific capacity ranged from 2.06 250 m3/day/m/dd, transmissivity of
aquifer material in general range from 1.54 to 345 m2/day and the static water level
recorded is in the range of 1.68m to 32.15m bgl.

4.3 Ground water resources

Ground water resources for Bellary district is estimated taluk wise and presented in
the table-1, which indicates that the Net annual ground water availability in the
district is 65277 ham, Gross ground water draft is 28572ham, and Ground water
balance available for future ground water development is 35539 ham. Taluk wise
data viz. Net ground water availability, Existing ground water draft for irrigation,
Existing gross groundwater draft for domestic and industrial water supply, Existing
gross ground water draft for all use, Allocation for domestic and industrial use for
next 25 years, Net ground water availability for future irrigation development,
Balance of ground water irrigation potential and the Stage of ground water
development is shown in the table.
 Fig-8

2
Based on the stage of ground water development, 100% area in Hospet taluk, and
Siruguppa followed by almost 95 % of the area in Sandur taluk 83 percent in Bellary
taluk falls in safe category where there is scope for further ground water
development. In H.B.Halli and Kudlugi taluks it ranged from 20 to 40% of area
falling in safe category, where proper graound water management practices to be
followed for further ground water development. Hadagali taluk falls in OE category
where it is required to recharge ground water with artificial recharge methods and
further ground water development is to be avoided. 50% of the area in Kudlugi and
30 percent in H.B.Halli taluks falls in Semi critical where it is to adopt proper
management practices for avoiding further critical stage. Bellary about 17% and
H.B.Halli 50% of the area not covered under canal irrigation falls under OE which
also requires attention. Similarly in Kudlugi 10 % of the area falls in OE where
proper ground recharge schemes to be implemented. Taluk wise stage of ground
development computed as on March 2009 is presented in the table and status of
ground water utilization is in figure-9.

Table-1 Taluk-wise Groundwater Resource of Bellary district as on March 2009

WATER DRAFT FOR DOMESTIC
NET ANNUAL GROUND WATER

WATER DRAFT FOR ALL USES

ALLOCATION FOR DOMESTIC

STAGE OF GROUND WATER

EXISTING GROSS GROUND

EXISTING GROSS GROUND

EXISTING GROSS GROUND

WATER AVAILABILITY FOR

AND INDUSTRIAL USE FOR
AND INDUSTRIAL WATER

FUTURE IRRIGATION
WATER DRAFT FOR

DEVELOPMENT IN
NEXT 25 YEARS

CATEGORISATION

CERCENTAGE
AVAILABILITY

IRRIGATION

(%)
SUPPLY

TALUK

SEMI-CRITICAL

CRITICAL (%)
SAFE (%)

OE (%)
(%)
HAM HAM HAM HAM HAM HAM % % % % %
Bellary 15326 3844 998 4842 1871 9630 32 83 17
Hadagali 6078 5769 612 6381 631 207 105 100
H.B.Halli 5223 4940 418 5358 460 610 103 20 30 50
Hospet 10408 2525 586 3112 1236 6651 30 100
Kudlugi 4914 3375 319 3694 415 1123 75 40 50 10
Sandur 7065 2972 646 3618 848 3245 51 95 5
Siruguppa 16263 1149 418 1567 1041 14073 10 100
Total 65277 24574 3997 28572 6502 35539 43.77

4.4 Groundwater Vulnerability area

Groundwater being a dynamic resource, getting recharged annually, primarily from
the rainfall, is vulnerable to various developmental activities and is prone to
deterioration in quality and quantity. The vulnerability is high in certain areas while in
other areas it is comparatively stable. Based on its susceptibility to various stress
factors the district wise vulnerability map is prepared on a regional scale considering
the following factors viz.

3
Fig-9
1. Area under high stage of ground water development falling in over exploited
(generally with stage of development more than100%) and critical (generally stage of
development within 85-100%) category as on March 2009.

2. Area having intensive cultivation/ area falling under canal command, thus prone to
pollution from fertilisers/ insecticides or water logging.
3. Area having fluoride above maximum permissible limit of 1.5ppm.

4. Area having nitrate above maximum permissible limit of 45ppm. (Even though
nitrate is point source pollution due to anthropogenic activity and as such area
cannot be demarcated, for the convenience of the user group, area having high
incidence of pollution is marked. Within the marked area there may be points devoid
of high nitrate and vice-versa.)

5. Industrial cluster as identified by Central Pollution Control Board, prone for

pollution from industries.

In some of the districts parts of the area groundwater is vulnerable due to more than
one of the above parameters, while in some others the entire district is free from
vulnerability. In Bellary district Fluoride concentration intensive irrigation and
application fertilizers/pesticide contamination is common in command areas and
Nitrate contamination in other parts. The area vulnerable to groundwater is given in
figure 10.

4.5 Unit area annual groundwater recharge

Sustainability of groundwater resource depends mainly on two factors viz. Annual
groundwater recharge and annual groundwater draft. The annual groundwater
recharge depends on the quantity and intensity of rain fall, the infiltration
characteristics of the soil, the depth to groundwater level, the slope of the area and
the geomorphology. The groundwater recharge is assessed separately for the
monsoon and non monsoon period due to rainfall as well as due to other sources.
The annual groundwater recharge includes all the above.

The recharge from other sources includes return seepage from irrigated area,
seepage from canals, seepage from water bodies, seepage from influent rivers etc.
The recharge can be expressed in metres. In the state of Karnataka, the unit area
recharge is grouped into four categories viz. 0.025-0.10m, 0.10-0.15m, 0.15-0.25m
and 0.25-0.50m. In Bellary district the unit area annual recharge is in the (fig-11)
Fig-10
Fig-11
As per Ground water Resource Estimation 2009, the areas falling in Hadagali
(100%), H.B. Halli (50 %), Bellary (17%), Kudlugi (10%) taluks are falling in
Overexploited category. In such areas Artificial recharge structures such as
Percolation tanks (PT), check dams (CD), Point recharge structures etc are planned
for artificial recharge of ground water (Fig-12).

4.6 Ground water quality

The water samples from National Hydrograph Stations were analysed to decipher
the shallow aquifer water quality. The results indicate that the water is alkaline in
nature with average PH value of 8.6 and overall range between 7.8 to 9.1. The
average values of other important parameters like Ca-74 ppm, Mg-68.88 ppm, TH-
469 ppm, Cl-401ppm, F-1.18 ppm etc., which are falling in desirable to permissible
class as per “Indian standard drinking water specification’’ except pH value is
slightly higher, which falls beyond permissible limit. The Nitrate and Chloride
contents are found more in few pockets in Hospet, Sirguppa and parts of Hadagali,
and south of Kudlugi taluks. This is due to intensive irrigational activities in the
command area especially in Hospet and in siruguppa taluks where farmers use
maximum Nitrogen, Phosphate and sulphate fertilisers. It is observed Nitrate
concentrations are beyond 100 ppm in the range of 106 to 380 ppm and the average
Nitrate concentration is 144.33 ppm. Similarly, Chloride concentrations are observed
in the range of 78 to 923 ppm with an average of 401 which falls in permissible class.
However most part of the Bellary district where Chloride is exceeding the desirable
limit of 250 ppm. Fluoride concentration ranged from 0.2 to 3.2 ppm with an average
of 1.18 which is well within the permissible limit but exceeding the desirable limit and
many samples exceed the permissible limit of 1.5 ppm. Considering the ground
water quality in the district for irrigation purposes it is found that the Specific
conductance ranged from 870 to 4760 (average 2189 m mhos/cm at 25° c), Sulphate
is in the range of 38 to 826ppm (average 241.83 ppm) and sodium is in the range of
41 ppm to 449 ppm (average 241.16). The Sodium Adsorption ratio calculated
ranged from 0.1 to 9.4 indicating Low Sodium Type of ground water falling in
excellent class. Based on percent Sodium it ranged from 27.47 to 75.37 falling
desirable to permissible class. The Residual carbonate values calculated indicates
less than 1.00 where it is excellent for irrigation purposes.
 Fig-12

2
4.5 Status of ground water development
4.5.1 Bellary taluk
The Bellary taluk with 99 villages with a population 625494 where besides surface
water, ground water also is the source of drinking water. The remaining part where
surface water is not available, groundwater is the main source for both drinking and
irrigation purposes. There are 990 bore wells fitted with hand pumps, 116 bore wells
used for piped water supply schemes, 146 bore wells used for mini water supply
schemes. These are the major abstraction structures for drinking water needs in the
taluk. Bellary taluk having total geographical area of 169027 ha of which 87.13 %
(147286ha) is of Total sown area /cultivable land, in which the net irrigated area, is
about 52.18 % (76861ha). Out of 52.18% about 12.7% (18804ha) of the net irrigated
area comes from ground water. So the ground water for irrigation is being
developed from shallow dug wells, dug-cum bore wells and shallow tube wells. Thus
as per 2006-2007 Minor irrigation census there are 2484 shallow irrigation bore
wells are the major ground water development structures for irrigation purpose
followed by 216 shallow irrigation dug wells. The ground water developed from
these structures is utilized for irrigation through adopting sprinklers (11 shallow bore
wells), drip irrigation (8 borewells), open channel (145 dug wells+1045 bore wells),
underground channels (69 dug wells+1386 bore wells), through surface pipe
(Dugwells 2+10 borewells) and others (24 bore wells). These are the major ground
water development management practices in the taluk. The stage of ground water
development is 32 % where 83% of the area is safe as the pre-monsoon mean (May-
01 to May-2010) water level is in between 3.519 to 6.321 m over the area. Further
17% of the area is falling under OE category where it demands proper ground water
augmenting projects to recharge the ground water system. Shallow zone ground
water can be developed for irrigation through dug wells in topographic lows and
through shallow/deep bore wells in the other areas. The four exploratory bore wells
drilled by the CGWB under VRB project have yielded 1.31 to 3.54 lps for the drilled
depth up to 90.00mbgl. The exploration for deeper aquifer during 2001 to 2002 have
constructed 4 exploratory wells and two observation wells in the depth range of 188
to 200m where deeper aquifers being explored. The yield was in the range of 1.1 to
6.3lps is useful and facilitating drinking water needs.

4.5.2 Hadagali Taluk

Hadagali taluk is mainly rain fed. The surface water utilisation /availability are limited
to western part of the taluk, which falls under irrigation scheme/minor irrigation
schemes. Groundwater is the main source of drinking water and irrigational purposes
in Hadagali taluk. In general, ground water developed through dug wells, dug cum
bore wells and bore wells. Bore wells are the main ground water development
structures for both drinking and irrigation purposes. The statistical analysis of ZP,
the yield range of 0.5 lps to 2.5 lps and all the villages in the taluk have been
provided with drinking water supply like piped water supply schemes, mini water
supply schemes and hand pumps. There are 604 bore wells fitted with hand
pumps, 99 bore wells used for piped water supply schemes and 160 mini water
supply schemes through bore wells, fulfilling drinking water needs and support the
above fact. Hadagali taluk having total geographical area of 94853ha of which
10307ha is of Total sown/cultivable land, in which the net irrigated area is about
11.36 % (12235ha). Out of 11.36% about 9.91% (10225ha) of the net irrigated area
comes from ground water which is major and only 1.79 % of the net irrigated area fall
under surface water irrigation in western part of Hadagali taluk. So the ground water

3
for irrigation is being developed from shallow dug wells, dug-cum bore wells and
shallow tube wells. Thus as per 2006-2007 Minor irrigation census there are 3390
shallow irrigation bore wells are the major ground water development structures for
irrigation purpose followed by 7 shallow irrigation dug wells. The ground water
developed from these structures is utilized for irrigation through adopting drip
irrigation (1 bore well), open channel (118 bore wells), underground channels (7
dugwells+3253 bore wells), surface pipe (12 bore wells) and others (6 bore wells).
These are the major ground water development management practices in the taluk.
The CGWB studies reported that the unit draft ranges for dug well 0.003 to 0.02
MCM. DCB are 0.008 to 0.025 MCM bore wells are 0.03 to 0.05 MCM. Considering
the Annual ground water development and water level trend during various seasons
over the period the Hadagali taluk is categorized under OE (Overexploited). The
pre-monsoon mean (May-2001 to May-2010) water level is in between 5.897 to
15.868 m in over the area. Considering the OE category where it demands proper
ground water augmenting projects to recharge the ground water system. The five
exploratory bore wells drilled by CGWB under VRB project have yielded 0.13 to 5.55
lps for the drilled depth up to 65.00mbgl. The exploration for deeper aquifer during
2001 to 2002 have constructed 3 exploratory wells and two observation wells in the
depth range of 144 to 200m, where deeper aquifers being explored. The yield was
in the range of 0.25 to 5.1 lps is useful and facilitating drinking water needs through
ground water.

4.5.3 Hagari Bommanahalli Taluk

H.B.Halli yet another taluk are of mainly rain fed. The surface water
utilisation/availability is limited to 3005 ha (Department of information and statistics)
area of the taluk, which falls under irrigation through Tungabhadra canal.
Groundwater is the main source of drinking water and irrigational purposes in H.B.
Halli taluk. In general, ground water developed through dug wells, dug cum bore
wells and bore wells. Bore wells are the main ground water development structures
for both drinking and irrigation purposes. All the villages in the taluk have been
provided with drinking water supply like piped water supply schemes, mini water
supply schemes and hand pumps. There are 488 bore wells fitted with hand
pumps, 96 bore wells used for piped water supply schemes and 150 mini water
supply schemes through bore wells, fulfilling drinking water needs and support the
above fact. H.B. Halli taluk having total geographical area of 97599ha of which
57.21 % (55843 ha) is of Total sown/cultivable land, in which the net irrigated area is
about 35.56 % (19861ha). Out of 35.56% about 30.18% (16858 ha) of the net
irrigated area comes from ground water which is major and only 5.38 % of the net
irrigated area fall under surface water irrigation through canals of Tungabhadra. So
the ground water for irrigation is being developed from shallow dug wells, dug-cum
bore wells and shallow tube wells. Thus as per 2006-2007 Minor irrigation census
there are 5790 shallow irrigation bore wells are the major ground water development
structures for irrigation purpose followed by 5 shallow irrigation dug wells. The
ground water developed from these structures is utilized for irrigation through
adopting sprinklers (0 dugwells+2 shallow bore wells), drip irrigation (0 dug wells+33
bore wells), open channel (1 dugwell+1941 bore wells), underground channels (4
dugwells+3731 bore wells), surface pipe with 15 bore wells and others (0
dugwells+68 bore wells). These are the major ground water development
management practices in the taluk. Considering the annual ground water
development and water level trend during various seasons over the period the H.B.

4
Halli taluk is categorised under Semi critical with 30 % and OE (overexploited) with
50% in non command areas. In this taluk almost all irrigation dug wells are dry
during pre monsoon period with the water level of more than 16.00m below ground
level. However the irrigation bore wells are in operation and the yield reduces as the
summer months approaches. Considering the OE and semi critical category where it
demands proper ground water augmenting projects to recharge the ground water
system. Further while taking ground water developmental activities priorities needs
to be given for meeting the drinking water requirements of rural and urban areas.
The five exploratory bore wells drilled by the CGWB under VRB project have yielded
0.15 to 6.50 lps for the drilled depth up to 87.00 mbgl. The exploration for deeper
aquifer during 2001 to 2002 have constructed 3 exploratory wells and two
observation wells in the depth range of 200m where deeper aquifers being explored.
The yield was in the range of 0.61 to 5.50 lps is useful and facilitating drinking water
needs through ground water.

4.5.4 Hospet taluk

About 26.74 % of the total geographical area of Hospet taluk is covered by forest. In
the remaining part where surface water is the main source for both drinking and
irrigation purposes, to a lesser extent is from ground water source. The low level
ground water development in the taluk is attributed to the Tungabhadra canal water
irrigation available for entire area except pockets of uplands. There are 857 bore
wells fitted with hand pumps, 64 bore wells used for piped water supply schemes,
108 bore wells used for mini water supply schemes. These are the major abstraction
structures for drinking water needs in the taluk. Similarly, in the irrigation sector
ground water is developed through dug wells, dug cum bore wells and shallow tube
wells. Hospet taluk having total geographical area of 93374ha of which 49.32 %
(46060 ha) is of total sown/cultivable land, in which the net irrigated area is about
56.13 % (25855 ha). Out of 56.13% about 6.82% (3145 ha) of the net irrigated area
comes from ground water which is less when compared the surface water irrigation
with 43.55 % (20060ha) of the net irrigated area through canals of Tungabhadra. So
the ground water for irrigation is being developed from shallow dug wells, dug-cum
bore wells and shallow tube wells. Thus as per 2006-2007 Minor irrigation census
there are 2661 shallow irrigation bore wells are the major ground water development
structures for irrigation purpose followed by 456 shallow irrigation dug wells. The
ground water developed from these structures is utilized for irrigation through
adopting sprinklers, drip irrigation, (0 dug wells+9 bore wells), open channel (86
dugwells+697 bore wells), underground channels (221 dugwells+1812 bore wells),
surface pipe (3 dug wells+3 bore wells) and others (0 dugwells+140 bore wells).
These are the major ground water development management practices in the taluk
where the use of sprinklers and drip irrigation activities are negligible. Considering
the annual ground water development and water level trend during various seasons
over the period the Hospet entire taluk is categorised under Safe with the stage of
ground water development is 30%. The Mean water level during pre monsoon
period (May-2001 to May 2010) ranged from 1.457 to 10.322m. The long term water
level trend (2001 to 2011 from NHS shows average rise 0.318 m/y. Considering the
Safe category where Shallow zone ground water can be developed for irrigation
through dug wells in topographic lows and through shallow/deep bore wells in the
other areas. The one exploratory bore wells drilled by the CGWB under VRB project
have yielded 0.70 lps for the drilled depth up to 86.00 mbgl. The exploration for
deeper aquifer during 2001 to 2002 have constructed 3 exploratory wells and two

5
observation wells in the depth range of 200m where deeper aquifers being explored.
The yield was in the range of 0.13 to 8.20 lps is useful and facilitating drinking water
needs through ground water.

4.5.5 Kudlugi taluk

About 21.07 % of the total geographical area of Kudlugi taluk is covered by forest.
Groundwater is the main source of drinking water and irrigational purposes in
Kudlugi taluk. In general, ground water developed through dug wells, dug cum bore
wells and bore wells. Bore wells are the main ground water development structures
for both drinking and irrigation purposes. All the villages in the taluk have been
provided with drinking water supply like piped water supply schemes, mini water
supply schemes and hand pumps. There are 1171 bore wells fitted with hand
pumps, 110 bore wells used for piped water supply schemes and 241 mini water
supply schemes through bore wells, fulfilling drinking water needs and support the
above fact. Kudlugi taluk having total geographical area of 159706ha of which 62.88
% (100432 ha) is of Total sown/cultivable land, in which the net irrigated area is
about 13.30 % (13358ha). Out of 13.30% about 12.18% (12240 ha) of the net
irrigated area comes from ground water which is major and negligible 1.11 % of the
net irrigated area fall under surface water irrigation through localised tanks. So the
ground water being the overall source for irrigation and being developed from
shallow dug wells, dug-cum bore wells and shallow tube wells. Thus as per 2006-
2007 Minor irrigation census there are 4736 shallow irrigation bore wells are the
major ground water development structures for irrigation purpose followed by 224
shallow irrigation dug wells. The ground water developed from these structures is
utilized for irrigation through adopting sprinklers (0 dugwells+3 shallow bore wells),
drip irrigation, (0 dug wells+10 bore wells), open channel (124 dugwells+2587 bore
wells), underground channels (24 dugwells+1942 bore wells), surface pipes (2 dug
wells+140 bore wells) and others (74 dugwells+54 bore wells). These are the major
ground water development management practices in the taluk. Considering the
annual ground water development and water level trend during various seasons over
the period the Kudlugi taluk is categorised under Semi critical with 50 % and OE
(overexploited) with 10% in non command areas. Overal 40 % falls under Safe
category having further scope for ground water development. Most of the irrigation
dug wells are having deep water levels/ dry during pre monsoon period as observed
in Gajanur, Kottur and Kudlugi. However the irrigation bore wells are in operation
and the yield reduces as the summer months approaches. The long term water level
trend (2002 to 2011) at NHS shows fall in the range of 0.0.071m/y to 0.204 m/y.
Considering the 50 % under semi critical and 10 % OE category where it demands
proper ground water augmenting projects to recharge the ground water system.
Further while taking ground water developmental activities priorities needs to be
given for meeting the drinking water requirements of rural and urban areas. The
eleven exploratory bore wells and four observation bore wells drilled by the CGWB
under VRB project have yielded negligible to 11.20 lps (C.J.Halli) for the drilled depth
up to 58.00 m bgl. The exploration for deeper aquifer during 2001 to 2002 have
constructed 3 exploratory wells and two observation wells in the depth range of 187
to 200m where deeper aquifers being explored. The yield was in the range of 0.03
to 4.0 lps is useful and facilitating drinking water needs through ground water.

6
4.5.6 Sandur taluk
About 25.55 % of the total geographical area of Sandur taluk is covered by forest. In
the remaining part where Ground water is the main source for both drinking and
irrigation purposes, to a lesser extent is from surface water source. The high level
ground water development in the taluk is attributed to the limited availability of
surface water from Tungabhadra canal. There are 555 bore wells fitted with hand
pumps, 99 bore wells used for piped water supply schemes, 105 bore wells used for
mini water supply schemes. These are the major abstraction structures for drinking
water needs in the taluk. The irrigation sector the ground water being developed
through dug wells, dug cum bore wells and shallow tube wells. Sandur taluk having
total geographical area of 94359 ha of which 35.30 % (33310 ha) is of Total
sown/cultivable land, in which the net irrigated area is about 18.57 % (6187 ha). Out
of 18.57% about 14.80% (4931 ha) maximum of the net irrigated area comes from
ground water when compared to the surface water irrigation with 956 ha (2.87 %) of
the net irrigated area through canals of Tungabhadra and tanks. So the ground water
for irrigation is being developed from shallow dug wells, dug-cum bore wells and
shallow tube wells. Thus as per 2006-2007 Minor irrigation census there are 2341
shallow irrigation bore wells are the major ground water development structures for
irrigation purpose followed by 233 shallow irrigation dug wells. The ground water
developed from these structures is utilized for irrigation through adopting sprinklers,
drip irrigation (0 dug wells+1 bore wells), open channel (227 dugwells+1781 bore
wells), underground channels (6 dugwells+526 bore wells), surface pipe, and others
(0 dugwells+33 bore wells). These are the major ground water development
management practices in the taluk where the use of sprinklers and drip irrigation
activities are negligible. Considering the annual ground water development and
water level trend during various seasons over the period the Sandur entire taluk
(95%) is categorised under Safe except 5 % falling under semi critical. The Mean
water level during pre monsoon period (May-2002 to May 2010) is 7.13m. The long
term water level trend (2002 to 202011) from NHS shows average rise 0.388 m/y.
Considering the Safe category where Shallow zone ground water can be developed
for irrigation through dug wells in topographic lows and through shallow/deep bore
wells in the other areas. The three exploratory bore wells drilled by the CGWB under
VRB project have yielded 0.12 lps to 2.9 lps for the drilled depth up to 90.00 m bgl.
The explorations for deeper aquifer during 2001 to 2002 have constructed one
exploratory well to the depth of 200m where deeper aquifers being explored. The
yield was in the range of 1.05 lps is useful and facilitating drinking water needs
through ground water.

4.5.7 Siruguppa taluk

Siruguppa taluk where considerable amount of ground water developed is in the
urban areas for developmental activities and that the use of ground water for
agricultural purposes is very limited except in the non command areas. The low
level ground water development in the taluk is attributed to the Tungabhadra canal
water irrigation available for entire area except pockets of uplands. There are 648
bore wells fitted with hand pumps, 83 bore wells used for piped water supply
schemes, 131 bore wells used for mini water supply schemes. These are the major
abstraction structures for drinking water needs in the taluk. In irrigation sector the
ground water being developed through dug wells, dug cum bore wells and shallow
tube wells. Siruguppa taluk having total geographical area of 104278 ha of which
80.21 % (83645 ha) is of Total sown/cultivable land, in which the net irrigated area is

7
about 40.65 % (34002 ha). Out of 80.21 % about 3.62 % (3035 ha) of the net
irrigated area comes from ground water which is negligible when compared the
surface water irrigation with 28343ha 33.88 % of the net irrigated area through
canals of Tungabhadra. However the ground water for irrigation is being developed
from shallow dug wells, dug-cum bore wells and shallow tube wells. Thus as per
2006-2007 Minor irrigation census there are 735 shallow irrigation bore wells are the
major ground water development structures for irrigation purpose followed by 91
shallow irrigation dug wells. The ground water developed from these structures is
utilized for irrigation through adopting sprinklers, drip irrigation, open channel (51
dugwells+150 bore wells), underground channels (10 dugwells+572 bore wells),
surface pipe (30 dug wells+10 bore wells) and others (0 dugwells+3 bore wells).
These are the major ground water development management practices in the taluk
where the use of sprinklers and drip irrigation activities are negligible. Considering
the annual ground water development and water level trend during various seasons
over the period the Siruguppa taluk is categorised 100 % under Safe with overall
stage of ground water development of 10%. The Mean water level during pre
monsoon period (May-2001 to May 2010) 5.613m. The long term water level trend
(2001 to 2010) from NHS shows average rise 0.0.386 m/y. Considering the Safe
category where Shallow zone ground water can be developed for irrigation through
dug wells in topographic lows and through shallow/deep bore wells in the other
areas. Where as in non command areas where it demands proper ground water
augmenting projects to recharge the ground water system. The two exploratory and
one observation bore wells drilled by the CGWB under VRB project have yielded 5 to
7 lps for the drilled depth up to 76.30 m bgl. The exploration for deeper aquifer
during 2001 to 2002 have constructed two exploratory wells in the depth range of
200m where deeper aquifers being explored. The yield was in the range of 1.73 to
2.34 lps is useful and facilitating drinking water needs through ground water.

5.0 GROUND WATER DEVELOPMENT

As per resource estimation overall stage of Ground water development is 43.77%

where in different taluks it ranged from 10 to 105%. Hospet and Siruguppa taluks
falling in Safe category with the stage of ground water development 30% and 10%
where the balance ground water potential may be utilised with different abstraction
structures suitable with reference to its topography and the aquifer geometry. The
taluk like Sandur the ground water development reached almost saturation point with
95% falling in semi critical to OE category. Especially in Hadagali taluk which is
falling in OE where almost all the dug wells are dry during pre monsoon period and
water levels are deep during post monsoon period besides a large number of bore
wells were drilled in these areas and putting stress on ground water potential. At
these areas the farmers drilled the bore wells without taking into the consideration of
the spacing criteria between well to well. This has to be educated and a proper farm
management practice is to be adopted for judicial use of available ground water.
The Groundwater Resource Estimation of the district indicates that the net ground
water availability for future irrigation development is 35539 HAM. Based on this and
the present status of ground water development i.e. through shallow dug wells and
bore wells alone where the deeper aquifers are not much exploited, it is proposed
that the ground water development structures viz. dug wells and dug cum bore wells
and bore wells in those areas falling under Safe and semi critical category. Dug
wells are the ideal structures in command areas of Hospet, Siruguppa, and Bellary

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taluks. Dug cum bore wells and bore wells are suitable in the other areas. In case
of DCB extension bores of 100 to 152mm drilled from the surface of the dug well,
both these may be drilled up to a depth of 40 to 80m and to tap deeper aquifers it
has to be drilled up to 200 m.

It may be taken into consideration while designing the various abstraction

structures; emphasis for a farm budget model can be evolved for the structure with a
designed discharge of 2 to 5 lps with an irrigable command of 1.25 to 3.00ha.
Ground water development may also be considered on the banks of rivers and
streams in Hospet, bellary and Siruguppa taluks in general.

5.2 Water Conservation and Artificial Recharge

The taluks Hospet, Siruguppa and parts of Bellary are falling in command area.
These areas the water table is shallow, low rate of ground water exploitation and
gradual rise of water table over the years resulting in ruling out of any Artificial
Recharge schemes. As per the Resource estimation, 100% of the area in Hadagali
taluk, 50% in H.B.Halli, 17% in Bellary and 10% area of Kudlugi taluks falls under
Over Exploited category which requires immediate intervention by way of
conservation and artificial recharge to ground water in order to arrest further
declining trend in water levels. Artificial recharge through percolation tank, check
dam and nalla bunds are the solutions to recharge ground water in the district Fig.12
Further Dug well Recharge schemes where the shallow dug wells are dry like in
HB.Halli and Kudlugi taluks can be taken up so that available surface runoff in their
field can be recharged into the groundwater system. Under Centrally sponsored Dug
well recharge scheme initially proposed 2264 structures over the district, as on
31.12.2012 and out of which 328 structures were completed so far. Kudlugi taluk is
the largest next to Bellary, where in predominately undulating and hilly comprising of
undulating and rugged terrain where the runoff is high. Under these conditions, it is
advisable to go for watershed treatment methods, which can help in augmenting the
ground water resources. Further considering the topography, the structures like
gully plugs, cement plugs, nalla bunds and contour bunds may be constructed by
which runoff can be arrested and recharged in to the ground water. As per the
statistical data the district has 74 ZP tanks distributed in Kudlugi, HBhalli, Sandur,
Hadagali and Hospet taluks, of which Hadagali taluk falling in OE category having
least number of surface water tanks with six, this is unusual considering its nature of
large geographical area falling in non command area. There is a scope for further
construction of percolation tanks, check dams and other artificial recharge structures
to enhance the recharge in to the ground water system in Hadagali, H.B.Halli, and
Kudlugi taluks. Most of the existing tanks are silted and dried up. Desilting the tanks
and construction of additional tanks will help in recharging the phreatic zone. Sub
surface dykes are suitable along the river course where ever thickness of alluvium is
more.

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6.0 GROUND WATER RELATED ISSUES & PROBLEMS

In command areas of Hospet, Siruguppa and Bellary taluks are having shallow water
level between ground level to 3.00m during both pre and post monsson period
especially in the areas of Tungabhadra low level and high level canal which are
showing regular rising trend water table (Emmiganur and Tekkalakota) are water
logged and in some places prone to water logging leading to ground water
contamination. This is attributed to seepage from canal to shallow aquifer, less
ground water exploitation, unrestricted canal water irrigation, no proper drainage
system and major part of the surface water applied for irrigation is by flooding
method in to the nallahs during the intensive irrigation period which are again
causing water logging. Due to water logging quality deterioration where Peddavanka
water shed in Siruguppa taluk reported higher salinity. In non command areas like
H.B.Halli Kudlugi taluks and other areas ground water pollution is due to poor
drainage, use of fertilizers in agriculture and indiscriminate dumping of domestic and
agricultural waste on the land. The studies by CGWB reports that the ground water
having Fluoride contamination which are geogenic in origin occurring in western and
northern part of Hadagali and control points of Kudlugi taluks. The soils in canal
irrigation and in some other parts are deteriorated due to intensive irrigation and
extensive use of fertilisers. However the state government has taken up land
development/treated through water shed development project in which it is identified
an area of 431336ha are not available for irrigation due to bad soil. It is reported that
206008ha land were developed/treated through water shed development projects
(as on 31.03.09) and still remains balance of 175749ha of land. This directly or
indirectly contributes to ground water pollution. The other most common problem is
power cut and voltage fluctuation in lifting the ground water for their irrigation
purposes. In many of the villages water scarcity exists due to defunct domestic bore
wells for want of proper maintenance.

7.0 AWARENESS & TRAINING ACTIVITY

Central Ground Water Board has organised Mass Awareness programme on

“Protection and Conservation of ground water” at Zilla Panchayat meeting hall,
Bellary on 10/03/2004. The program was inaugurated by Shri. S.N.Jayaram, IAS,
Deputy Commissioner, Bellary district. Shri. G.S. Shivaswamy, KAS, CEO, ZP,
Bellary presided over the function. Shri. Veeranna Joint Director, Depatment of
Mines and Geology (Northern Circle), Governmant Karnataka, and about 200
representatives from Zilla Panchayat, Taluk Panchayat and Educational institutions
were participated in the programme. As part of this programme, drawing competition
was organised for school children and certificates were distributed. Working models
of artificial recharge and rainwater harvesting were exhibited. Documentaries of
ARS and rainwater harvesting with case studies and quality of ground water were
shown.

8.0 AREAS NOTIFIED BY CGWA / SGWA

None of the taluks in the district are notified under CGWA / SGWA.

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9.0 RECOMMENDATIONS

The major problem in command areas of Bellary district is water logging. So

preventive measures/flush out excess irrigation water of water logging through
construction of drains along canal seepage paths, exploitation of ground water,
avoiding over irrigation to the crops, lining of canals, adoption of soil conservation
methods and recommended cropping patterns. Further it is to take adequate
measures to tap ground water in downstream through Jack wells/infiltration wells and
practicing conjunctive use would improve both water logging and quality in major part
of command areas. The state government has to speed up the projects on land
development/treating of balance undeveloped soil of 175749ha through watershed
development projects.

Desilting of surface water structures like tanks in non command areas is effective in
augmented recharge to ground water. Judicious use of ground water in command
areas especially in Hadagali, H.B.Halli and Kudlugi taluks is advised. Pilot
experimental studies to recharge ground water in south and western part of Bellary
traluk, H.B.Halli, Kudlugi and Hadagali taluks are suggested.

The Stage of ground water development is 100% OE in Hadagali, 50% in H.B.Halli

and parts of Bellary. Semi critical condition exists in H.Bhalli and Kudlugi taluks (30%
& 50 %) which demands construction of pizometers up to 100m to monitor water
levels on long term basis so as to take timely remedial action if there is decline in
ground water level and quality.

The present management practices for irrigation such as sprinklers, drip irrigation,
underground channels etc. are appreciable and should be encouraged. The villages
located in the undulating topography of the district are facing drinking water scarcity.
Special source finding projects and construction of ARS may be taken up as these
places are having enough scope for artificial recharge.

The abandoned bore well/dug wells can be utilised for recharging aquifers with
surplus runoff during rainy days. Exploratory drilling in the district beyond 90.00m
bgl is required to explore the deeper aquifers.

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