Groundwater depletion is a significant factor exacerbating the water crisis in Delhi and Bangalore. Both cities rely heavily on groundwater to meet their growing water demands due to population growth, urbanization, and inadequate surface water resources. Over-extraction has led to rapidly declining water tables, making groundwater harder to access and diminishing its availability. In Delhi, groundwater levels have dropped by 1-2 meters annually in some areas, while Bangalore has seen borewells reaching depths of over 1,000 feet.

This depletion has several consequences: reduced water availability for residents, increased costs for water extraction, land subsidence, and a greater vulnerability to droughts. It also threatens the quality of groundwater, as deeper aquifers may contain higher concentrations of contaminants.

To manage groundwater resources more sustainably, several measures can be implemented:

1. Rainwater Harvesting: Mandating rainwater harvesting in urban areas to replenish aquifers.
2. Regulation: Enforcing stricter regulations on groundwater extraction, especially for commercial and industrial use.
3. Public Awareness: Educating citizens about water conservation and the importance of sustainable water use.
4. Wastewater Recycling: Promoting the use of treated wastewater for non-potable purposes, reducing dependence on groundwater.
5. Integrated Water Management: Implementing integrated water resource management strategies that balance the use of surface and groundwater.