The purpose of this Act is to protect groundwater resources and to regulate their over-exploitation. The Act provides for the establishment of a Ground Water Authority and defines its internal organization and its functions. The Authority shall control, regulate, develop and administer groundwater in the region by ensuring its optimal and efficient utilization. The Act also provides for the registration of new users of wells and prohibits the sinking of wells in notified areas without a permit. The Act further provides for the following matters: powers of the Ground Authority to enter on any property with the right to inspect or seize any land or the water located on the surface or underground; offences and penalties; appeals; rule making powers of the Government; etc.
India · 2003-01-23