groundwater over-extraction

Groundwater over-extraction occurs when more water is drawn from underground aquifers than naturally replenished by rainfall and other sources. This excessive withdrawal can lead to a decline in water levels, causing wells to dry up and making it harder to access water in the future. It can also cause land subsidence (the ground sinking) and reduce water quality by allowing pollutants to concentrate. Over time, this imbalance threatens water availability for agriculture, drinking, and ecosystems, making sustainable management crucial to prevent long-term environmental and economic issues.