Scarcity of safe drinking water is not a distant threat anymore

Water scarcity is the depleting level of water quantity and quality. We are quite ignorant of the fact that the safe and clean water we use, or misuse every day is not as abundant as we believe it to be. In a semi- developed nation like India, which has a population density much higher than a first world country like the United States of America, it becomes more tough. The population of India consists of varying economic groups. Hence, the division of clean drinking water becomes unequal. Freshwater or safe usable water is a finite resource that we take for granted. Most parts of India are essentially facing a lack of safe and clean drinking water. Other than being a source of drinking water, freshwater is also an important element for food production. Many states of the country are largely dependent on agriculture, which sustains the food production for the entire population of India.  

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The Indian subcontinent has many rivers, swamps and estuaries which ideally should be enough. However, the constantly growing population has led to the impending water crisis. The climate change has affected the existing water bodies causing them to dry up. All the major rivers are originated from Himalayan glaciers, which are melting at an alarming rate affecting the water cycle leading to unpredictable weather all year long. The climate changes has led to major floods in almost all parts of the country. 

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But is it just the climate change that is leading to the water crisis in the country? 

Many reports consider that the impending water crisis is a man-made disaster. Water crisis is not just the lack in supply of water to meet the demands of the population. It is also the quality of water that does not meet the standards of safe drinking water. The lack in the quality of water is majorly caused by human activities. Agricultural activities require a lot of water, mostly groundwater. Today, the use of chemical fertilizers is affecting not only the soil quality but also the quality of groundwater as it is absorbed from the soil during recharge. The biggest reason for the depleting quality of freshwater in surface water bodies is water pollution which is caused by the inflow of chemicals from industries, irresponsible waste disposal in rivers and the immersion of idols during festivals. Some chemicals continue to be harmful for the water even after purification.  

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Water scarcity is, however, still a reversible problem which can be countered by measures taken on individual and organizational levels. There are initiatives like the Ganga Action Plan that are taken up by the state. We, as responsible citizens can also contribute to ensuring water security through the smallest of measures. Every drop counts. We can contribute to safeguarding the environment with small steps like not disposing off waste in water bodies or using water in a conservative manner and with a sense of responsibility.