| Water scarcity | Water stress |
Definition | The term "water scarcity" describes the general deficiency of water resources to meet the demands of certain region or population. | Water stress occurs when the demand for water exceeds the available supply within a specific period or when the quality of available water limits its use. |
Causes | Uneven Distribution of Rainfall: States such as Kerala and Meghalaya receive ample rainfall, whilst arid areas such as Rajasthan and Gujarat face chronic water shortages. Over-extraction of Groundwater: India was worryingly utilizing its groundwater supplies, particularly in states like Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Haryana, according to a report by the Central Ground Water Board. Pollution of Water Sources: According to the CPCB, the Ganges and Yamuna are two of the major rivers in India that are severely contaminated, which affects the availability and quality of water.
| Geographical variation: Geographically some areas maybe in rain shadow areas such as Vidarbha. Population density: In areas where there is high population per area experience water stress. Agricultural Patterns: Some agricultural areas like Sugarcane belt in UP is water stressed due to over utilization of water.
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Implications | Health Issues: As per NITI Aayog’s report, around 2 lakh people die in India every year due to inadequate water supply. Reduced Agriculture Productivity: Water scarcity may hinder crop yields, affect food security, and push poverty among farmers. Economic Losses: The World Bank (2016) highlights in its research, "Climate Change, Water and Economy," that nations experiencing water scarcity could experience a significant decline in economic development by 2050.
| Energy Shortages: Water stress will hamper India’s energy production by 2030 due to 70% of thermal power plants facing water crisis. Increasing inter-state water disputes: Cauvery Water dispute between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. Risk to Food security: About 74% of the area under wheat cultivation faces water stress.
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Way Forward | Water Pricing: Effective water and power pricing, with subsidized water supply for basic drinking and domestic needs. Promoting use of wastewater: To treat and reuse water for non-potable uses including irrigation, industrial processes, and landscaping, invest in wastewater treatment facilities. Water Conservation and Efficiency: Promote the use of water-saving technologies, the repair of leaks, and the use of smart irrigation systems in agriculture.
| Diversification of Water Sources: Explore alternate water sources such as desalination, treated wastewater reuse, and rainwater harvesting. Micro irrigation: This irrigation approach reduces water wastage and is especially suitable for water-stressed locations. Climate-Resilient Water Management: Develop and execute climate-resilient water management methods that take into consideration changing precipitation patterns, extreme weather events, and other climate-related issues.
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