What is an Artesian Well?

Discover what an artesian well is, how it works, and its significance. Learn about naturally pressurized groundwater systems, their benefits, and their role in sustainable water sourcing.

Context: Recently, Taranagar village in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, experienced a unique phenomenon as large amounts of water gushed from underground. A Senior Hydro-Geologist attributed this to an artesian condition.

About Artesian Well

It is a well that brings groundwater to the surface without pumping because of pressure from an aquifer. (Artesian Aquifer)
Artesian aquifer refers to water stored under pressure between impermeable layers of rock and sediment.
The water is “confined” and does not require external force to emerge, unlike regular tube wells or wells.
Underground water in an artesian aquifer is surrounded by poorly permeable rocks that create high pressure. A rupture, such as drilling, causes the pressurized water to flow upward to the surface.

Why Did Water Emerge in the Desert?

Geological Context in Jaisalmer: In the desert, water is stored beneath layers of sandstone. When the top layer is punctured, the underground pressure forces water to flow upwards.
Global Examples: Similar phenomena have been recorded in desert regions of Australia and Africa.