Reusing water is the mantra to save the next generation

India’s ground reality: A race against time

India is currently grappling with a severe water crisis, with over 600 million people facing extreme water stress, as reported by the NITI Aayog Composite Water Management Index. The country possesses only 4% of the world's freshwater resources while supporting 17% of the global population, leading to a per capita availability of around 1,545 cubic meters, which is below the Falkenmark Index's threshold for water scarcity (1,000 cubic meters).  The studies by NITI Aayog project that by 2025, major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai may completely deplete their groundwater resources.

According to the World Bank, by 2030, India may not meet the overall demand for water  due to rising consumption coupled with declining availability. This figure is expected to surpass 50% by 2047, the year India is expected to become a developed nation. To meet the challenges posed by rapid urbanisation, food security and economic stability,  India must develop more effective, intelligent, and sustainable strategies to address its current water scarcity issues.

Urban India’s Growing Challenges

Urban areas are particularly vulnerable, with cities close to Delhi such as Gurugram and Noida facing acute water shortages. Reports suggest that groundwater levels are declining by up to 4 meters in some regions, severely impacting agricultural productivity and public health. Approximately 163 million people lack access to clean drinking water close to home, leading to around 200,000 deaths annually due to inadequate sanitation. The south and northwest states are expected to take the worst hit in the next two years.

What next?

Innovative water conservation demands immediate attention through cutting-edge solutions. Advanced technologies like decentralised treatment systems, smart metering, and community-based recycling initiatives offer promising pathways. Intelligent leak detection systems combined with pressure management technologies help optimise distribution networks, while membrane bioreactors and constructed wetlands transform wastewater into valuable resources for sustainable reuse.

 In addition to this, implementing water meters can significantly enhance sustainability by promoting responsible consumption. By accurately measuring usage, consumers become more conscious of their water habits, potentially reducing overall consumption. This initiative can lead to better resource management and help mitigate the impending crisis.

 As India faces a critical juncture in its water management journey, reusing and recycling water emerges as a vital strategy for ensuring a sustainable future. Innovative solutions like decentralised treatment systems and community engagement can help build resilient urban environments. NGOs and government initiatives must work collaboratively to promote awareness and implement effective strategies for water conservation. Embracing these measures will be essential for safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Raghunandan Prasad is the Managing Director of Konarak Meters.

Disclaimer: All views expressed in this article are that of the author and may not represent the views of the India Water Portal.