Section 2(10)(k) in State Water Resources Regulatory Authority (Guidelines on Selection of Water Sources and for, ensuring availability of Water for the Water Supply Irrigation Systems) Regulations, 2018
(k)Springs : Springs are formed due to the eruption of groundwater on to the surface. Till the ground water emerges out on the surface as a spring, it carries minerals acquired from the subsoil layers. Spring waters from shallow strata are more likely to be affected by surface pollutants than deep-seated waters. Springs may be either perennial or intermittent. The discharge of a spring depends on the nature and size of catchment, recharge and leakage through the sub-surface. Usefulness of springs as sources of water supply depends on the discharge and its variation from time to time during the year. Every scheme shall be conceived only after taking all such factors into account.