Bhopal Administration Imposes Ban on Private Tube Well Digging Until June 30

In response to the escalating heatwave and rapidly declining groundwater levels, the Bhopal administration has announced a ban on the private digging of tube wells until June 30. The decision aims to conserve water resources and ensure sustainable groundwater management in the region. Under the new directive, any individual or organization found violating the ban will face stringent legal action, including the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs), hefty fines, and possible imprisonment. 

#BREAKING: Bhopal administration has banned private tube well digging till June 30 due to heat and falling groundwater levels. Violators face FIRs, fines, or jail. Only government projects are exempt. SDM permission is mandatory for boring machine entry or operation. pic.twitter.com/0BOwWPQKCa

— IANS (@ians_india) April 7, 2025

The administration has made it clear that these measures are non-negotiable, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the water crisis. Exceptions to the ban apply only to government-sanctioned projects, which are permitted to proceed with tube well operations under strict regulatory oversight. Additionally, the use of boring machines for tube well drilling now requires prior permission from the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), ensuring that all activities are closely monitored.