Context & The Gist
The article addresses the growing global water crisis, termed "water bankruptcy" by a recent UN report. This crisis is driven by climate change, unsustainable water usage, and pollution, leading to erratic water availability – from floods to severe droughts. The report emphasizes the interconnectedness of water basins and the potential for increased tensions due to water scarcity. The current winter in the Himalayas exemplifies this issue, with several states experiencing a snow drought due to weakened western disturbances.
Key Arguments & Nuances
- Climate Change as an Exacerbating Factor: Rising temperatures and disrupted rainfall patterns are intensifying existing water stresses, making droughts and shortages more frequent and chronic.
- Interconnectedness of Water Basins: Water scarcity in one region can create pressure on others, potentially leading to local and international conflicts.
- Shift in Focus Needed: Traditional water management prioritizes supply-side measures (providing water) over demand-side measures (prudent use, conservation).
- Importance of Water Accounting: Transparent tracking of water resources is crucial for effective management and equitable distribution.
- Himalayan Vulnerability: The Himalayan region is particularly vulnerable to changing precipitation patterns, impacting agriculture, hydropower, and river flows.
UPSC Syllabus Relevance
- GS Paper 2: Governance – Issues relating to development and management of Natural Resources.
- GS Paper 3: Economy – Agricultural and Industrial Development, Resource Mobilization.
- GS Paper 1: Geography – Water resources, climate change and its impact on India.
Prelims Data Bank
- Global Water Bankruptcy: Title of the UN report highlighting the global water crisis.
- Western Disturbances: Extratropical storms originating in the Mediterranean region that bring winter precipitation to the Indian subcontinent. Their weakening is linked to the current snow drought in the Himalayas.
- Aquifers: Underground layers of rock and soil that hold groundwater. Protecting aquifers is crucial for water security.
Mains Critical Analysis
The article highlights a critical juncture in global water management. The concept of “water bankruptcy” is a stark warning about the unsustainable trajectory of water resource utilization.
PESTLE Analysis
- Political: Enforceable limits on water extraction require strong political will and international cooperation. Equitable water distribution necessitates addressing power imbalances.
- Economic: Water scarcity impacts agriculture, industry, and energy production, leading to economic losses. Investing in water-efficient technologies and infrastructure is crucial.
- Social: Water scarcity can exacerbate social inequalities and lead to conflicts over access to water resources.
- Technological: Water accounting technologies, rainwater harvesting, and water-efficient irrigation methods can improve water management.
- Legal: Clear legal frameworks are needed to regulate water extraction, protect aquifers, and ensure equitable distribution.
- Environmental: Climate change is the primary driver of the water crisis, necessitating mitigation and adaptation measures.
The core issue is the mismatch between increasing demand and dwindling supply, compounded by inefficient management practices. The implications are far-reaching, affecting food security, economic stability, and geopolitical relations. A critical gap lies in the lack of comprehensive water accounting systems and the prioritization of supply-side solutions over demand-side management.
Value Addition
- National Water Policy (2012): Emphasizes the need for a participatory approach to water resources management, integrated water resources development, and water conservation.
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A campaign launched by the Government of India to improve water use efficiency and promote water conservation.
- Ken-Betwa River Linking Project: An ambitious project aimed at transferring water from the Ken River to the Betwa River to address water scarcity in the Bundelkhand region.
The Way Forward
- Implement Transparent Water Accounting: Develop and implement robust water accounting systems to track water resources and identify areas of unsustainable use.
- Prioritize Demand-Side Management: Promote water conservation, rainwater harvesting, and water-efficient technologies.
- Protect Aquifers: Implement measures to protect and recharge aquifers, ensuring sustainable groundwater extraction.
- Strengthen International Cooperation: Foster collaboration between countries to address transboundary water issues and ensure equitable water distribution.
- Invest in Climate Resilience: Develop infrastructure and strategies to adapt to the impacts of climate change on water resources.