Artesian Condition

News: Residents of Taranagar village in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, saw underground water gush out unexpectedly from December 27 to 29. Geologists from Rajasthan’s State Ground Water Department attributed the phenomenon to an “artesian condition”.

About Artesian Condition

• Artesian conditions occur when groundwater is confined under pressure within an aquifer, trapped between two impermeable layers of rock or clay. This pressurized water rises naturally to the surface when the upper confining layer is punctured, such as through drilling a well.
• The term “artesian” originates from Artois, France, where artesian wells were first drilled in the Middle Ages.
• Key Features: 
  • Confined Aquifer: The water is stored in a pressurized aquifer, surrounded by impermeable layers that trap it.
  • Natural Flow: Artesian water flows naturally to the surface without the need for pumping, driven by underground pressure.
  • Depth: Artesian aquifers are located deeper below the surface compared to regular groundwater sources.
• Difference from Normal Wells
  • Unlike normal wells, artesian wells do not require pumping, as the water flows to the surface naturally due to high pressure. Artesian water is also deeper and confined within impermeable rock, whereas regular wells access unconfined groundwater.
  • These conditions are significant in arid regions, providing a steady water supply, as seen in places like Rajasthan and Australia.