CITY OF SAN FERNANDO - The Provincial Government yesterday warned the public that excessive use of deep wells and groundwater contributed to the sinking of the land.
Governor Lilia Pineda said the ground level in Masantol and Macabebe towns has reached below sea level. She said, problem on land elevation in some towns is caused by excessive use or extraction of groundwater.
This statement was issued by Pineda yesterday during the water summit held in this city attended by the officials of various districts, local chief executives, provincial officials and other interested sectors.
Pampanga is reportedly showing signs of over extraction of groundwater sources.
With this, Pineda has enjoined all water utilities in the province to support the proposed the integrated water resource management regarding the use of surface in lieu of the groundwater.
The provincial government also initiated efforts to address pressing concerns related to the water situation of Pampanga.
It was also disclosed that almost all of Pampanga’s water supply comes from groundwater sources.
Based on ongoing studies as explained by officials of the provincial government , it is estimated that by 2025, 12 out of 22 municipalities and two cities in Pampanga may be at risk of groundwater shortage.
The effects of groundwater over-extraction include deterioration of water quality, land subsidence, drying up of wells, increased pumping cost, adverse environmental effects and reduction in surface water.
As this developed, the governor is eying surface water as best alternative to groundwater following report that almost 90 percent of Pampanga’s surface water is unutilized.