India’s excessive groundwater extraction—over 25% of the global total—is causing Earth’s axis to shift, scientists warn. This phenomenon, called polar motion, stems from mass imbalance due to water withdrawal. The shift may have long-term consequences, including altered seasons, extreme weather, and rising sea levels. Affected regions include Punjab, Haryana, and major cities like Delhi and Bengaluru.

BulletsIn

• India leads world in groundwater extraction—over 25% of global total
• Groundwater removal disturbs Earth’s mass, causing axis shift
• NASA-led studies show axis shifted 78 cm east (1993–2010)
• India, Pakistan, China responsible for most of this shift
• 250–260 km³ groundwater used yearly, mostly for irrigation
• Axis shift may affect seasons, cause extreme weather changes
• Risk of rising sea levels, coastal city flooding increases
• Cities like Delhi, Bengaluru face steep groundwater decline
• Falling groundwater also reduces river flows like Yamuna, Godavari
• Land sinking reported in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata from overuse