Drilling a borewell is a big decision—whether for a home, farm, or business. It’s not just about finding water; it’s about ensuring long-term, sustainable access to it. Before you start, here are the key things you should know to avoid costly mistakes and ensure success.
1. Understanding Borewells
A borewell is a deep, narrow shaft drilled into the ground to access underground water. The depth, location, and method depend on the geological conditions of your area.
2. Conduct a Groundwater Survey
- Hire a hydrogeologist to identify the most promising water-rich spots.
- Avoid random drilling—it wastes time, money, and damages the land.
- Use modern tools like electrical resistivity surveys to improve accuracy.
3. Know the Legal Requirements
- Some regions require permits before drilling a borewell.
- Follow local water authority guidelines to avoid legal issues.
- Ensure compliance with rules about minimum distance from other borewells and septic tanks to prevent contamination.
4. Choosing the Right Drilling Method
- Rotary Drilling: Ideal for deep borewells in rocky terrain.
- Percussion Drilling: Suitable for softer soil layers.
- DTH (Down-the-Hole) Drilling: Effective for hard rock formations.
5. Borewell Depth and Diameter
- The average domestic borewell depth ranges from 150 to 300 feet, while agricultural borewells can go much deeper.
- A proper diameter ensures adequate water flow and pump fitting.
6. Selecting the Pump
- Match the pump type (submersible or centrifugal) with your borewell depth and water yield.
- Ensure energy efficiency to reduce running costs.
7. Water Quality Testing
Before using the borewell water, get it tested for:
- Chemical safety (fluoride, iron, nitrates)
- Biological safety (bacteria, viruses)
- Install filters if necessary.
8. Plan for Groundwater Recharge
- Integrate rainwater harvesting systems to replenish the aquifer.
- Prevent overuse to maintain water supply for the long term.