Water Scarcity in India and its Conservation Strategies
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Abstract
As of now, Earth stands as the sole known planet in the universe where the remarkable combination of water and life coexists. Water also known as Paani, Jal, Tanni, L’eau, Wasser, Acqua, and is a vital natural resource. It is essence of life, without water there would be no life possible on the Earth.
Water is essential to ensure food security, to feed livestock, and to conserve the environment. Nonetheless, an overwhelming 97% of Earth’s total water reservoir is contained within the saline expanse of our oceans, rendering it unsuitable for direct consumption. The remaining 2.5% constitutes fresh water, but a significant portion exists in frozen form within glaciers and polar ice caps. Consequently, only a minuscule 0.5% of the planet’s water is accessible for human use. India, home to 16% of the world’s total population, grapples with a mere 4% share of the world’s water resources, which are depleting at an alarming rate. The demand for water is projected to surge from 40 billion cubic meters (bcm) to approximately 220 bcm by 2025.
The proliferation of solid and hazardous waste in water systems, including rivers, ponds, lakes, and canals, contributes substantially to water quality degradation. Consequently, comprehensive management measures are imperative to curb water wastage and pollution. This can be achieved through groundwater replenishment, control of pollution and contamination in water bodies, water conservation, rainwater harvesting, drought mitigation, heightened awareness regarding water preservation, water recycling, improvements in sewage drainage systems, optimized agricultural practices, water projects, and enhanced water usage efficiency.
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