Hyderabad’s Growth Is Running Into a Water Crisis

Hyderabad Water Crisis and Groundwater Depletion

Hyderabad’s rapid urban growth is changing its skyline. IT campuses are expanding, high-rise apartments are coming up, and new residential communities are spreading across the outskirts. But behind this impressive development lies a growing concern that the city cannot afford to ignore: water security.

The latest groundwater assessment reported by the Telangana Ground Water Department in October 2026 highlights the seriousness of the situation. Groundwater levels in Hyderabad’s core urban region fell by 6.85 metres in September compared with the same period last year. The city received just 457 mm of rainfall against the normal 619 mm, a deficit of 26 per cent.

The drinking water situation is equally concerning. Hyderabad currently requires around 750 million gallons per day (MGD), but receives only 585 MGD. Demand is expected to reach 835 MGD by 2027. Nearly 70 per cent of the city is already estimated to be over-exploiting groundwater.

At a time when residents are struggling to get regular water supplies, HYDRAA’s crackdown on private borewells and water points has added to the difficulties in several localities. While preventing illegal groundwater extraction is important, such action cannot come at the cost of leaving households without drinking water. The government must first ensure reliable alternatives before disrupting existing supply arrangements.

The condition of Hyderabad’s lakes makes the challenge even bigger. HYDRAA Commissioner AV Ranganath has reportedly said that nearly 69 per cent of the city’s lakes have been encroached upon. These water bodies play a crucial role in groundwater recharge and flood management. Their protection is essential for the city’s long-term survival.

Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy’s decision to study groundwater conservation models in Rajasthan and Maharashtra is a welcome move. However, Hyderabad needs more than studies and announcements. Rainwater harvesting must be enforced in apartments and commercial buildings. Encroached lakes and natural drainage channels must be restored. Treated wastewater should be reused and groundwater extraction must be properly regulated.

The government must also ensure that HYDRAA’s enforcement measures do not create fresh problems for residents who already depend on private water sources.

Hyderabad wants to grow into a global investment destination. But IT investments, skyscrapers and new infrastructure cannot sustain a city without adequate water. The government must treat water security as a priority rather than wait for the crisis to become unmanageable.