Perennial rivers were the major source of water in the ancient days. People who were away from the river sources utilized the ground water and stored rain water for their daily needs. For many centuries ground water utilization has been practiced in the form of open wells maintained by private individuals, farmers or communities. For several centuries well irrigation has been in practice. Cultivators made use of ground water through wells to meet the shortage of tank/canal waters. But they lacked specific planning as each source was developed without consideration of the other. For the development of any system, efficient planning and management of water resources for irrigation/industrial and other uses is an important aspect. It is important to understand that ground water and surface water are not separate entities. They are two separate forms of the total water source. It is necessary to realize the importance of the conjunctive water use in the management of ground water and surface water system. Due to the waste of surface water as runoff into the sea and ground water depletion there is reduction in well yield, drying up of shallow wells and deterioration of water quality. It also results in sea water intrusion into the coastal aquifers, increased energy required to lift water from greater depth and its high cost which proves costly for the poor farmers for their agriculture.
 
Kerala is blessed with plenty of water, flora and fauna. But due to the rapid urbanization the ground water level has been decreasing. People and the government are making continuous efforts to conserve water. apartments in Kerala are installing the rain water system to make use of the rain water.