The Brhat Samhita Of Varaha Mihira Varahamihira Verified Link

Action: If a verse seems obscure, check if he is quoting Garga or Vriddha Parashara. If it contradicts the established Śāstras (scriptures), it may be a scribal error.

Ethnographic studies in arid regions (Rajasthan, Gujarat) show that traditional water diviners still use similar indicators. Termites need moisture, so their mounds can indicate shallow water tables.
However, “verification” would require controlled double-blind studies. None exist. The success rate is anecdotal and geographic. In granite bedrock areas, the indicators fail.
Verdict: Traditional ecological knowledge (TEK), not scientifically verified as universally reliable.