Answer

The Global Commission on the Economics of Water recently released a report highlighting the urgency of addressing the global water crisis. The report reveals that demand for freshwater could outstrip supply by 40% by 2030. This growing crisis threatens food production, economic stability, and public health, with 1,000 children dying daily due to lack of access to safe water. Immediate action is essential.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

Urgency of Tackling the Global Water Crisis

• Water Scarcity Impacting Food Security: The Commission emphasises that over half of the world’s food production is at risk without improved water management. Water-intensive agriculture in regions with depleting resources exacerbates the crisis.
  For example: Punjab and Haryana in India face severe groundwater depletion due to water-intensive rice farming.
• Economic Threats: By 2050, the water crisis could shrink the global GDP by 8%, with poorer nations potentially losing up to 15% of their GDP. This highlights the economic vulnerability associated with water mismanagement.
  For example: In Africa, water shortages threaten agriculture and industries, impacting national economies.
• Health Impacts in Developing Countries: Water shortages and poor sanitation affect public health, with over 1,000 children dying daily from lack of access to safe water, predominantly in economically disadvantaged countries.
  For example: In Sub-Saharan Africa, waterborne diseases remain a leading cause of child mortality.
• Water Demand Outstripping Supply: The global demand for freshwater could exceed supply by 40% by 2030, driven by population growth, urbanisation, and climate change.
  For example: Cape Town, South Africa, faced a severe water crisis in 2018, nearly running out of water during its “Day Zero” crisis.
• Groundwater Depletion: Rapid extraction of groundwater is depleting resources faster than they can be replenished, particularly in regions dependent on agriculture.
  For example: Rajasthan’s groundwater levels have dropped to over 500 feet below the surface, posing risks to both agricultural and urban water supplies.
• Water Pollution from Industrial Waste: The report highlights that 80% of industrial wastewater is not recycled, contributing to severe water pollution in developing countries.
  For example: In India, untreated industrial waste from textile factories pollutes the Ganges, affecting millions.
• Political Inaction: Despite the urgency, political will to implement necessary reforms remains lacking, exacerbating the crisis. Inter-state water disputes and the absence of global governance mechanisms delay effective action.
  For example: Disputes between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka over river water sharing illustrate the complexities in India’s water management.

Strategies for Sustainable Water Management and Mitigating Associated Risks

• Promoting Water-Saving Agricultural Practices: Encouraging the cultivation of less water-intensive crops and improving irrigation efficiency are crucial. Governments should offer incentives to shift from water-intensive crops like rice and sugarcane.
  For example: India’s promotion of millet cultivation under the National Millet Mission is a step toward water-efficient agriculture.
• Implementing Water Pricing Policies: Pricing water according to usage can discourage wasteful practices. A tiered pricing system could charge more for excessive use while ensuring access for essential needs.
  For example: Singapore’s water pricing policy has been effective in reducing consumption and promoting conservation.
• Wastewater Recycling and Treatment: Governments must invest in recycling and treatment of industrial and municipal wastewater, aiming to reduce pollution and replenish local water sources.
  For example: Israel’s national water policy includes treating and recycling 85% of its wastewater for agricultural use.
• Developing Transboundary Water Agreements: Countries sharing river basins need to establish bilateral and multilateral agreements to manage water resources collaboratively and prevent conflicts.
  For example: The Indus Water Treaty between India and Pakistan has helped manage shared water resources since 1960.
• Enhancing Rainwater Harvesting: Expanding rainwater harvesting systems in both urban and rural areas can significantly augment local water supplies and reduce dependency on external sources.
  For example: Tamil Nadu mandates rainwater harvesting systems in all buildings, improving groundwater levels in the state.
• Investing in Desalination Technologies: Coastal countries should invest in desalination plants to convert seawater into usable freshwater, reducing pressure on inland water resources.
  For example: Saudi Arabia leads in desalination efforts, with 70% of its drinking water coming from desalinated seawater.
• Strengthening Global Water Governance: A global pact to conserve water is essential to unify efforts in tackling the crisis. International cooperation and shared frameworks can help manage and protect water resources globally.
  For example: The UN Water Conference 2023 aims to address global water governance gaps and promote collective action.

Check Out UPSC CSE Books From PW Store

The report by the Global Commission on the Economics of Water underscores the critical need for immediate action to address the global water crisis. Sustainable management of water resources, coupled with strong political will and international cooperation, will be essential in securing water for future generations. As global demand for water grows, countries must act collectively to mitigate associated risks and promote equitable access to water.

DOWNLOAD PDF