Assessing the Water Crisis in Meghalaya, India: An Integrated Analysis through a Physical-Geography Lens

Meghalaya, a state in north-eastern India renowned for its extreme rainfall, is paradoxically facing a severe water crisis, primarily driven by the depletion and degradation of its spring-based water resources. This research paper employs a physical-geography lens to analyze the hydro-geological, climatic, and anthropogenic drivers of this crisis. Through a desk-based review of government reports, project documents, and scholarly articles, this study synthesizes data on over 70,000 identified springsheds, of which approximately 55,000 have been mapped and 792 are critically degraded. The analysis reveals that the combination of seasonal monsoon rainfall, complex karst geology, steep slopes with thin soils, and human activities like deforestation, mining, and infrastructural development creates a system where high rainfall translates into rapid runoff with minimal groundwater recharge. The paper presents case studies of community-led interventions and state-level projects, highlighting the effectiveness of integrated springshed management. It concludes with concrete recommendations spanning technical measures, robust policy and governance frameworks, and innovative financing mechanisms to enhance water security. The findings underscore the critical need for spatially-targeted, geography-informed strategies that address both the physical and human dimensions of water scarcity in this fragile mountainous region.

Meghalaya, Water Crisis, Springshed Management

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