UP Launches ₹1.65-Crore Project to Recharge Groundwater
New Delhi, September 16, 2026: The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a three-year Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) Project to improve groundwater availability in the Ganga-Yamuna Doab, with a project cost of ₹1.65 crore.
The initiative follows scientific studies by scientists from the CSIR-National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI), Hyderabad, which identified an approximately 200-kilometre-long ancient underground river, or paleochannel system, between Kanpur and Prayagraj. The study used technologies including aerial geophysical surveys and borehole logging to examine aquifers and ancient river systems beneath the region.
Under the project, rainwater will be scientifically channelled into underground aquifers, which are natural geological formations that store groundwater. The aim is to reduce the loss of rainwater and identify locations where it can effectively reach and recharge underground water reserves.
The Ground Water Department, Uttar Pradesh, is implementing the project with financial assistance from the National Mission for Clean Ganga. Six locations have been selected for the first phase, where recharge structures will be constructed and continuously monitored to assess their impact on groundwater levels and aquifer absorption.
The pilot phase will also examine the effectiveness of different groundwater recharge systems under varying geological and hydrogeological conditions. Based on the findings, the project is planned for expansion to other suitable locations across the Ganga-Yamuna Doab.
The NGRI study has indicated a hydrogeological relationship between the Ganga and Yamuna rivers and major aquifers beneath the region. The identified ancient river channels may also provide pathways for groundwater movement within these aquifers.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar Prajapati, Special Secretary and Director, Ground Water Department, Namami Gange and Rural Water Supply Department, stated that the scientific studies conducted by NGRI have provided important information about the aquifers and ancient river systems beneath the Ganga-Yamuna Doab.
Prabhash Kumar, Additional Project Director, Namami Gange, said that with technical support from NGRI, the project will undertake groundwater monitoring, research and development, and scientific assessment of the impact of recharge structures. Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities will also be undertaken to promote awareness about groundwater conservation.
