Politics · India · 12 hrs ago
Maharashtra allows some borewell drilling during drought until December 15
Maharashtra has temporarily eased borewell restrictions during drought conditions.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the measure after farmers raised concerns about water shortages threatening standing crops and trees in Nagpur district.
Until December 15, farmers may seek permission to drill new borewells or deepen existing ones.
The change is limited to cases where water is needed to protect trees, and authorities must approve the work in advance.
The drought has also led the state to declare drought in 265 talukas, according to the story.
The government is also prioritising funding for water projects that are more than 75% complete, with other projects to be finished in phases.
Farmers must continue to conserve water and recharge groundwater as the temporary measure remains in effect.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a temporary relaxation of restrictions on drilling new borewells and deepening existing ones until December 15.
The measure is intended to help farmers save trees amid drought conditions.
Farmers must obtain prior permission, and the relaxation applies only where borewell work is essential to protect trees.
Fadnavis announced the measure on November 8 during a meeting with village representatives in Nagpur district.
He urged citizens to conserve water and recharge groundwater.
- Who
- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the measure. Farmers may apply for permission to drill or deepen borewells.
- What
- Restrictions on some borewell drilling and deepening are temporarily relaxed to help save trees.
- When
- Announced on November 8, 2026. The relaxation lasts until December 15.
- Where
- Maharashtra. Fadnavis announced it during an interaction in Lohari Sawanga, Nagpur district.
- Why
- Drought and water scarcity threatened trees and standing crops.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Fadnavis told farmer Rambhau Balpande that the government would permit borewell drilling wherever feasible to help farmers cope with drought.
Fadnavis announced a temporary, conditional relaxation of borewell restrictions during an interaction with local representatives.
The temporary relaxation is scheduled to end.
- Announced by
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis
- Announcement date
- November 8, 2026
- End date
- December 15, 2026
- Permission
- Farmers must obtain prior approval from authorities
- Location
- Lohari Sawanga, Nagpur district