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World Water Day

Water is life – we all have heard this sentence since childhood, but today it has remained only a slogan. Water, which is the core of our existence, is going through a crisis today. As population, urbanization and industrialization are increasing, the level of clean and safe water is decreasing. Recognizing this global crisis, the United Nations announced to celebrate March 22 as "World Water Day". The purpose of International Water Day is to explain the importance of water, spread awareness about water conservation and underline the role of water in the goals of sustainable development.

Commencement and objectives of World Water Day

World Water Day was first celebrated on 22 March 1993. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly during the "United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (Earth Summit)" held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992.

The main objectives behind this day are:

  • To spread awareness among people about the importance of water.
  • To focus on global issues related to water crisis.
  • To make the availability and management of clean water a part of sustainable development.

Importance of water

Life is impossible to imagine without water. Life on earth began with water and even today water is essential for all living beings. The utility of water can be understood in the following points:

1. Role of water in the human body: About 60% of the human body is made up of water. It helps in transporting nutrients to the body parts, controlling temperature, and removing waste materials.

2. Use in agriculture: Agriculture, which is the main economic activity of India, is completely dependent on water. Availability of water for irrigation affects both the quantity and quality of crop production.

3. Industry and power generation: Many industries such as textiles, chemicals, paper etc. use water excessively. Environmentally friendly energy such as hydropower is also obtained from water.

4. Environmental balance: Rivers, lakes, ponds, groundwater etc. are an integral part of the ecosystem. These provide life not only to humans but also to wild animals, birds and plants.

Current state of water crisis

In recent years, water crisis has become a serious global problem. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), even today there are about 2 billion people who do not have access to clean drinking water.

The situation in India is even more worrying:

  • About 54% of India's groundwater is in crisis.
  • 21 cities (such as Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi etc.) may completely run out of groundwater by 2030.
  • Due to climate change, the rain cycle has become unbalanced, which has increased the pressure on water sources.

Major causes of water crisis

1. Over-exploitation: Excessive use of water without planning and control, especially in agriculture and industries.

2. Excessive dependence on groundwater: Excessive use of underground water instead of local water sources.

3. Deforestation and urbanization: Deforestation and uncontrolled development of cities do not allow rainwater to be absorbed into the ground.

4. Pollution of water sources: Rivers, lakes and other water sources are getting polluted by domestic and industrial waste.

5. Lack of rainwater collection: Most of the rainwater flows into the sea through drains and rivers because we do not collect it.

Water conservation measures

1. Rainwater Harvesting: Recharging the groundwater level by storing rainwater is an effective measure.

2. Water Recycling: Water released from industries and domestic use should be purified and reused.

3. Controlling sprinklers and leaks: Even small leaks can waste thousands of litres of water over the years. Timely repairs are essential.

4. Drip and sprinkler irrigation: Water can be saved by adopting modern technology instead of traditional irrigation.

5. Public awareness campaigns: Workshops and rallies should be organised in schools, colleges and panchayats on the importance of water conservation.

Government Initiatives

The Government of India and state governments have launched several schemes to deal with the water crisis:

  • Jal Jeevan Mission: To ensure availability of tap water to every household.
  • Namami Gange Yojana: For cleaning and conservation of river Ganga.
  • Atal Bhujal Yojana: Community participation in groundwater management.
  • Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A coordinated effort for water conservation and water table recharge.

Our Role: As a responsible citizen

Water conservation is not only the responsibility of the government, it is the duty of every citizen. We can contribute to it by the following measures:

  • Take a pledge to save at least one bucket of water a day.
  • Do not leave the tap open, close the tap while brushing.
  • Make arrangements for rainwater harvesting on the roof of the house.
  • Make children understand the value of water.
  • Share good things related to water conservation on social media.

Future Vision

If we do not take the water crisis seriously today, the situation will become more dire in the coming years. According to a World Bank report, water scarcity could lead to a 6% drop in India's GDP by 2050. Lack of water can not only harm health and agriculture but also lead to social inequality and conflicts.

Conclusion

Water is our most precious natural resource. Its conservation is not only a need of the present but also a responsibility towards future generations. International Water Day is not just a day but a constant reminder that we should take steps now to save our lives and nature.