Scientific research from across the world – including studies in Morocco, California, and even India – is beginning to show that over-extraction of groundwater could increase the risk of earthquakes, especially in regions already sitting on fault lines.
What’s the Connection Between Groundwater and Earthquakes?
Imagine India’s crust like a giant, rigid sponge. Beneath the ground, there’s a balance between rocks, soil, and water. When we remove too much groundwater – particularly from aquifers deep below the surface – we’re changing the weight and pressure on the Earth’s crust.
This change is called “elastic unloading”. It’s like pulling a heavy book off a shelf – the shelf may rise slightly. Similarly, when we pump out massive amounts of groundwater, the land can slowly rise or sink. This process is called subsidence or uplift, and it can redistribute stress on nearby geological faults, potentially nudging them closer to slipping – triggering an earthquake.
Global Evidence: What Science Is Saying
- A 2021 study in Scientific Reports highlighted that declining water tables can influence tectonic stress patterns.
- Researchers have linked groundwater extraction in California’s Central Valley to increased seismic activity along fault zones.
- In 2023, a devastating earthquake in Morocco prompted questions about whether groundwater loss could have been a contributing factor. Preliminary findings suggest this might have indeed played a role.
What About India? Are We at Risk?
Yes – especially in regions like Delhi-NCR, northern plains, and parts of western India. Here’s why:
- India is among the largest extractors of groundwater globally, using it for agriculture, industry, and drinking water.
- The Himalayan region, one of the most seismically active zones on Earth, is experiencing both glacial melt and deep groundwater shifts, both of which can influence tectonic stress.
- Delhi-NCR, despite not being near the plate boundary, sits on several minor faults. Continuous groundwater depletion here is causing land subsidence and potentially altering fault stability.
Should We Be Worried?
We shouldn’t panic, but we should pay attention.
Groundwater depletion alone doesn’t “cause” earthquakes. But in tectonically sensitive areas, it may act as a trigger – like the final nudge that tips a pile of blocks. Most large earthquakes are driven by natural tectonic forces, but human activities like deep groundwater pumping can influence when and where they happen.
What Can We Do?
India needs a more proactive approach to groundwater management, especially in seismic zones. Here are a few steps:
- Monitor groundwater levels more frequently, especially near known fault lines.
- Use satellite data (like from ISRO and NRSC) to track land surface changes that could signal subsidence or uplift.
- Promote rainwater harvesting and aquifer recharge in urban areas.
- Incorporate seismic risk assessments into groundwater usage policies, especially in rapidly urbanizing zones.
At McD BERL, we understand the complex interplay between groundwater and geotechnical risk. Our team of experts specializes in scientific groundwater extraction planning, aquifer recharge strategies, and site-specific hydrogeological assessments. We combine data-driven tools, satellite analysis, and on-ground expertise to help cities, developers, and industries manage their water sustainably while reducing geophysical risks.
If you’re facing challenges related to groundwater depletion, land subsidence, or want to build long-term water resilience for your project—get in touch with us. We’re here to help you find the right solution, backed by science.