Groundwater Drilling in the Deccan Plateau: A Three-Year Analytical Study of Trends, Depths, and Performance in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh (2022–2024)

Abstract

This study analyzes groundwater drilling activities in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh from 2022 to 2024 using monthly data. Telangana showed substantial growth, with the number of wells drilled increasing from 109 in 2022 to 261 in 2023 (139.45% growth) and further to 565 in 2024 (116.48% growth), while total drilling depth grew from 2605.35 meters to 8502.55 meters (226.35% growth) and then to 13020.73 meters (53.14% growth), with indications of seasonal variations. In contrast, Andhra Pradesh also saw significant growth, with wells drilled increasing from 231 in 2022 to 453 in 2023 (96.10% growth) and further to 901 in 2024 (98.89% growth), while total drilling depth increased from 3558.90 meters to 13587.40 meters (281.76% growth) and then to 22699.50 meters (67.06% growth), followed by additional year-on-year growth. These distinct growth trajectories, characterized by varying magnitudes of change, highlight the dynamic nature of groundwater extraction across the two states, providing crucial information for regional water management strategies.

Introduction

This research examines groundwater drilling trends in the semi-arid Deccan Plateau regions of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh from 2022 to 2024, using official data on well counts and drilling depths. Groundwater extraction efficiency depends heavily on drilling technologies and geological conditions.

Drilling Technologies:

• Rotary Drilling: Used for unconsolidated to medium-hard formations with drill string diameters from 3 to 12 inches; rotary bits vary based on rock hardness.

• Down-The-Hole (DTH) Hammer Drilling: Preferred for hard rock, powered by high-pressure compressors delivering air at 150–350 PSI and 500–1500 CFM, enhancing percussive fracturing.

• Drill rods and casing pipes maintain borehole stability, welded onsite for structural integrity.

Geology:

• Telangana mostly features ancient crystalline rocks (granite, gneiss, quartzite) with basaltic zones in some areas.

• Andhra Pradesh has similar crystalline formations inland and sedimentary rocks (sandstones, shales) in coastal regions.

• Geological diversity influences equipment choice, drilling success, costs, and sustainability.

Methodology (Revathi T60H Rig):

• Pre-assessment ensures proper site selection.

• Rig mounted on trucks uses leveling jacks for stability.

• Combines rotary and DTH drilling with adjustable torque and feed systems, drilling depths up to 200 meters.

• Uses hydraulic motors, air compressors, water injection, and pipe loaders to optimize operations.

• Well completion includes casing, screens, gravel packing, and well development.

• Rig demobilization follows site restoration.

Future Directions:

• Adoption of smart drilling automation and AI diagnostics.

• GIS-based integrated planning to reduce redundant drilling and target aquifers efficiently.

• Modular rigs adaptable to varied geology.

• Focus on groundwater recharge and aquifer management to ensure sustainability.

• Policy support and training programs for sustainable and regulated drilling practices.

Conclusion

The analysis of groundwater drilling activities in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh between 2022 and 2024 reveals a significant and sustained increase in both the number of wells drilled and the total drilling depth across both states. A. Telangana Demonstrated substantial year-on-year growth in well drilling. The number of wells more than doubled between 2022 and 2023 (139.45% increase) and continued to rise significantly between 2023 and 2024 (116.48% increase). Similarly, the total drilling depth in Telangana experienced a dramatic increase of 226.35% from 2022 to 2023, followed by a further increase of 53.14% from 2023 to 2024. This indicates a consistent and accelerating trend in groundwater extraction efforts within the state. B. Andhra Pradesh Also exhibited significant growth in groundwater drilling activities during the study period. The number of wells nearly doubled between 2022 and 2023 (96.10% increase) and continued to grow robustly between 2023 and 2024 (98.89% increase). The total drilling depth in Andhra Pradesh showed an even more pronounced initial increase of 281.76% from 2022 to 2023, followed by a further substantial increase of 67.06% from 2023 to 2024. This highlights a strong and persistent drive towards increased groundwater utilization in Andhra Pradesh. C. Comparative Trends While both states show a clear upward trend in groundwater drilling, the magnitude of the initial increase (2022-2023) in total drilling depth was notably higher in Andhra Pradesh compared to Telangana. However, Telangana demonstrated a higher percentage growth in the number of wells drilled during the same period. In the subsequent year (2023-2024), both states continued D. Implications These distinct growth trajectories in groundwater drilling activities across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh underscore the increasing reliance on groundwater resources in the region. The significant year-on-year increases in both the number of wells and the total drilling depth have important implications for regional water management strategies, potentially indicating increasing water demand, changes in agricultural practices, or responses to climatic variability. Further research is needed to explore the underlying drivers of these trends and their long-term sustainability.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Shubham Pal Singh. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.