10 Mandatory Components for CGWA NOC Report
The Complete Hydrogeological Assessment Guide
Overview: The Essential Hydrogeological Assessment Guide
Obtaining the No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) is mandatory for industries, mining projects, and large infrastructure developers proposing to extract groundwater. This report ensures that your project will not negatively impact groundwater resources. To prepare an effective and NOC-approvable report, it is essential to include these 10 key sections.
This guide details the 10 mandatory components of the Hydrogeological Assessment Report required for successful CGWA NOC clearance, ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards.
The 10 Key Sections of the CGWA NOC Report
1. Project Overview and Location Details (Mandatory)
The report must begin with a brief description of the proposed project, its site area, and precise coordinates.
- Location: Precise location, site area, and geographical coordinates.
- Map Attachments: Attach Google Maps, toposheet maps, or relevant geospatial references that clearly demarcate the project boundary.
- Definition: Clearly define the extent and boundaries of the project area.
2. Groundwater Conditions in the Project Area
Provide a detailed assessment of groundwater availability, depth, and quality in and around the site.
Data to Include:
- Seasonal water level variations.
- Water quality data and any contamination issues.
- Hydrogeological maps showing aquifer characteristics.
- For Mining Projects: Describe groundwater conditions in both the core zone and buffer zone.
3. Details of Proposed Borewells / Tubewells
Mention the number, location, and technical specifications of all existing or proposed wells.
Key Specifications:
- Proposed drilling depth and diameter.
- Tentative lithological log of the borehole.
- Type and capacity of pumps, including H.P. and discharge rate.
- Site plan showing the exact locations of wells and piezometers.
4. Geophysical Studies and Resource Computation
Summarize any geophysical surveys and state the official groundwater resource status of the block.
- Resistivity or seismic results, if available.
- Groundwater resource assessment of the block (as per CGWA norms).
- Block availability status (Safe, Semi-critical, Critical, or Over-exploited).
5. Mine Plan and Dewatering Details (If Applicable)
For mining or large infrastructure projects, attach an approved mine plan along with a dewatering plan.
- The estimated volume of water to be pumped.
- Methods for safe disposal or reuse of this pumped water.
6. Utilization of Pumped Water
Specify the intended use of the pumped water, such as industrial operations, dust suppression, greenbelt development, or domestic use. Provide a clear distribution and utilization plan.
7. Impact Assessment and Mitigation Plan
Conduct a comprehensive assessment of how the project may affect the groundwater regime in nearby areas.
Discuss:
- Possible risks such as depletion or contamination.
- Predicted drawdown levels in nearby wells.
- Mitigation strategies (e.g., recharge structures or regulated pumping).
8. Disposal of Wastewater
Outline the wastewater disposal mechanism, mentioning whether it will be treated, reused, or disposed of safely, following CPCB/SPCB guidelines.
9. Water Conservation and Management Measures
Present how the project aims to optimize water use and minimize groundwater extraction.
Details to Include:
- Recycling and reuse methods.
- Details of STP, ETP, or Combined ETP (capacity and process flow chart).
- A comprehensive Water Balance Chart showing input, usage, recycling, and discharge.
10. Additional Information
Provide any other relevant details that support the assessment of the project:
- Nearby water bodies or recharge structures.
- CSR initiatives related to water conservation.
- Certification or compliance documents from other authorities (e.g., SPCB).
❓ CGWA Report Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is required to submit the CGWA NOC Report?
Virtually all industries, mining, and large infrastructure projects abstracting groundwater in India must submit this Hydrogeological Report to obtain the CGWA NOC.
2. Why is the Water Balance Chart crucial?
The Water Balance Chart provides a detailed breakdown of water input, usage, recycling, and disposal. It helps NOC officials understand the project’s Water Efficiency and actual dependency on groundwater.
3. Is a Hydrogeologist’s signature mandatory on the report?
Yes. To ensure the veracity of the technical data and conclusions presented in the NOC report, it must generally be certified and signed by a qualified and registered Hydrogeologist.
4. What happens if my block is categorized as “Over-exploited“?
Obtaining groundwater extraction permission in an “Over-exploited” block is highly difficult. The report must present robust mitigation plans, such as aiming for Zero Net Groundwater Draft or high-rate artificial recharge.
CGWA Report Assistance Call-to-Action
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