Groundwater and Sustainable Development Goals: Water Table Characteristics in Varanasi City

Groundwater, as a vital natural resource, plays a significant role in meeting water demands and promoting sustainable development in urban areas. This study focuses on the groundwater dynamics and water table characteristics in Varanasi city. Varanasi's cultural and historical importance, coupled with rapid urbanization and population growth, has led to increased water demands. Understanding the relationship between groundwater dynamics and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is crucial for formulating effective water management strategies to ensure water security and sustainable development. However, the over-exploitation of groundwater poses a significant challenge to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6. This study aims to investigate the characteristics of the water table in Varanasi City, with a focus on understanding the impact of over-extraction of groundwater. The study utilizes a combination of field surveys, groundwater monitoring, and hydrogeological analysis to assess the groundwater situation in Varanasi. Water table characteristics and groundwater recharge are calculated to identify trends and challenges related to groundwater availability. Overall groundwater dynamics is also analyzed. Results indicate that Varanasi faces significant groundwater challenges, the water table has experienced a declining trend over the years. To achieve sustainable development goals related to water resources, the study emphasizes the importance of implementing measures for sustainable groundwater management in Varanasi City. Groundwater depletion directly affects SDG 6, which focuses on ensuring clean water and sanitation for all. Furthermore, groundwater is essential for achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) as it supports irrigation for agricultural activities in the region. Groundwater depletion can undermine food security and livelihoods for local communities. By understanding the water table characteristics in Varanasi City and adopting sustainable groundwater management practices, the local authorities and communities can work toward safeguarding this critical natural resource for present and future generations while contributing to the attainment of SDG 6 and other interrelated sustainable development objectives.