The ministry for water resources is likely to finalise soon the issue of pricing of water for industrial use, which will then be sent for Cabinet approval.
Water resources minister Saif-ud-Din Soz, while expressing concerns over the fast-depleting groundwater table in various parts of the country, called for a restraint on over-exploitation of this resource and encourage its conservation.
Addressing mediapersons in the capital on Monday, he said groundwater table had reached critical levels in parts of seven states and Union territories, namely Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
?About 80% of the water is used for irrigation, which is necessary for ensuring food security. But we would suggest more judicious use of water in agriculture. For industrial use, pricing of water is an issue. We have to see how much social and public good is involved in the work of the industries concerned,? the minister said.
He added that 10 states had already enacted legislations to regulate the use of groundwater following the model Bill circulated by the Centre. Nineteen other states and Union territories would flow suit, he said.
