A local municipality in South Africa’s Port Elizabeth city, which experiences one of the worst droughts in its recorded history, has embarked on a plan to remove massive alien vegetation, which is believed to be responsible for the frequent water crisis in the city.

The project, which will cost the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality more than 20 million Rand (approximately 13.6 million US dollars), has been introduced as part of the municipality’s water-saving measures.

The officials have identified alien vegetation trees as a major cause of loss of water that is supposed to be flowing into the catchment dams.

According to local officials, a fully grown alien vegetation tree consumes about 100 litres of water per day.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-erupt-in-iran-over-water-crisis-at-least-three-killed-399565">Protests erupt in Iran over water crisis; at least three killed</a>

With this project, a total of 60 hectares have been covered already, with 20 hectares each for the Churchill, Impofu and Loerie dams. There are approximately 100 trees per hectare.

Nelson Mandela Bay MMC for infrastructure and engineering, Thsonono Buyeye, said that a multipronged approach was the best solution to avoid dry taps.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/around-8000-people-experience-drinking-water-crisis-in-canada-421203/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“We need to also look at the water crisis and drought from an environmental management perspective. As we continue to save the city against drought, we get an opportunity to explore different options and areas where we can save the little that we have in an integral approach. Removing these alien trees that have a high consumption of water contributes to the bigger picture,” Buyeye told News24.

This project is one of many that the metro is implementing to save as much water as possible and to augment the existing water resources.

(With inputs from agencies)

A local municipality in South Africa’s Port Elizabeth city, which experiences one of the worst droughts in its recorded history, has embarked on a plan to remove massive alien vegetation, which is believed to be responsible for the frequent water crisis in the city.

A local municipality in South Africa’s Port Elizabeth city, which experiences one of the worst droughts in its recorded history, has embarked on a plan to remove massive alien vegetation, which is believed to be responsible for the frequent water crisis in the city. The project, which will cost the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality more than 20 million Rand (approximately 13.6 million US dollars), has been introduced as part of the municipality’s water-saving measures. The officials have identified alien vegetation trees as a major cause of loss of water that is supposed to be flowing into the catchment dams. According to local officials, a fully grown alien vegetation tree consumes about 100 litres of water per day. Also read | Protests erupt in Iran over water crisis; at least three killed With this project, a total of 60 hectares have been covered already, with 20 hectares each for the Churchill, Impofu and Loerie dams. There are approximately 100 trees per hectare. Nelson Mandela Bay MMC for infrastructure and engineering, Thsonono Buyeye, said that a multipronged approach was the best solution to avoid dry taps. Watch “We need to also look at the water crisis and drought from an environmental management perspective. As we continue to save the city against drought, we get an opportunity to explore different options and areas where we can save the little that we have in an integral approach. Removing these alien trees that have a high consumption of water contributes to the bigger picture,” Buyeye told News24. This project is one of many that the metro is implementing to save as much water as possible and to augment the existing water resources. (With inputs from agencies)

South African municipality to chop down ‘water guzzling’ alien trees to mitigate drought impact

Syria once produced enough wheat to feed its entire population. But now the country has been hit by a historic drought. Crop failures are mounting. The situation is so bad that wheat farmers are mulling to leave the profession altogether. Our next report tells you more.

Crop failures mount after Syria gets hit by drought

Chebayesh wetland has been battling a drought. This rainfall season in Iraq was the second driest in 40yrs. As a result salinity of the river has risen to dangerous levels.

Dams built on rivers feeding Chebayesh wetland

Record low rainfall has resulted in a drought. The Euphrates river which provides water to Iraq and Syria has been drying up. The harvest has been hit, food security is under threat.

Syria: Historic drought devastates the country's breadbasket

For four years, drought has devastated homes and has left children without food in Southern Madagascar. Over a million people in the region require emergency food aid.

Drought devastates homes in Southern Madagascar

Reservoirs in Brazil's Sao Paulo are drying up. The area which is dependent on hydroelectric powerplants is now facing massive power outages. The government of the country is also mulling to take dire steps to conserve energy. WION brings you a report.

Brazil: Drought hits hydropower plants, Bolsonaro asks people to cut down on power consumption

Millions in Iraq and Syria are facing water shortage as the region's longest river the Euphrates dries up. The Euphrates was a lifeline for many countries. The shortage has led to a shortfall of hydropower.

Drought hits West Asia's longest Euphrates river

Brazilian Vice President Hamilton Mourao said on Wednesday a severe drought could lead to energy rationing in Brazil, contradicting other officials who have said that such a step would not be necessary.

Brazil, one of the world`s agricultural superpowers, is suffering from one of its worst droughts in a century. The lack of rainfall has emptied hydroelectric reservoirs, fanned inflation and hurt farmers. The government has given incentives to use less energy but says rationing is not expected.

"There may have to be some rationing," Mourao told reporters in Brasilia, although he said the government had taken necessary measures to prevent blackouts.

Brazil`s Mines and Energy Minister Bento Albuquerque on Tuesday said the country's energy crisis was worse than previously thought.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-unveils-emergency-power-measures-to-beat-drought-394579">Brazil unveils emergency power measures to beat drought</a>

In a televised national address, Albuquerque said Brazil had lost hydropower output equal to the energy consumed by the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil`s second-largest, in five months.

Separately on Tuesday, the ministry announced it would once again raise energy prices, with affected consumers paying on average 6.78% more for electricity starting on Sept. 1.

The meteorological outlook remains grim for Brazil. Rainfall in energy-producing regions is likely to remain well below average in September, the national grid operator ONS said last week.

Brazilian Vice President Hamilton Mourao said on Wednesday a severe drought could lead to energy rationing in Brazil, contradicting other officials who have said that such a step would not be necessary.

Brazilian Vice President Hamilton Mourao said on Wednesday a severe drought could lead to energy rationing in Brazil, contradicting other officials who have said that such a step would not be necessary. Brazil, one of the world`s agricultural superpowers, is suffering from one of its worst droughts in a century. The lack of rainfall has emptied hydroelectric reservoirs, fanned inflation and hurt farmers. The government has given incentives to use less energy but says rationing is not expected. "There may have to be some rationing," Mourao told reporters in Brasilia, although he said the government had taken necessary measures to prevent blackouts. Brazil`s Mines and Energy Minister Bento Albuquerque on Tuesday said the country's energy crisis was worse than previously thought. Also read | Brazil unveils emergency power measures to beat drought In a televised national address, Albuquerque said Brazil had lost hydropower output equal to the energy consumed by the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil`s second-largest, in five months. Separately on Tuesday, the ministry announced it would once again raise energy prices, with affected consumers paying on average 6.78% more for electricity starting on Sept. 1. The meteorological outlook remains grim for Brazil. Rainfall in energy-producing regions is likely to remain well below average in September, the national grid operator ONS said last week.

Drought may force Brazil to ration power, says Vice President Mourao

California is the world's largest producer of Almonds, but this year the industry is struggling to fulfill the basic domestic demand amid a historic drought. Almonds are California's top agricultural export.

California: Climate change is threatening world's largest Almond producer

Recent decision by Pakistan's Indus River System Authority (IRSA) to cut down water supply to Sindh province has deepened the dispute between both parties.&nbsp;

The latest controversy emerged after IRSA, which regulates water sources of the Indus River informed the Sindh irrigation department about the reductions made in water share for the upcoming dry spell, The Express Tribune reported.

"Sindh being the tail-ender of the river suffers more water losses than others. So, applying the same losses to all Barrage canals is unjustified," Sindh Minister Jam Khan Shoro said.&nbsp;

Sindh government will protest against the decision at all forums, he added. Shoro also said that "Sindh is already suffering from severe water shortage as IRSA and other relevant authorities defy the 1991 Water Accord opening of the Taunsa-Panjnad link canal.

"Earlier, the chief engineer of Sindh's Guddu Barrage has also advised growers not to go for paddy sowing in May and June as the barrage as well as the province are experiencing 'worst water shortage in 60 years.

'The water shortage has also worsened Pakistan's garrison city due to the depleting groundwater level and scorching heat.

Water shortage in Rawal Dam and Khanpur Dam has also led to the crisis as both the dams have almost touched the dead level, The Express Tribune reported citing officials.

Recent decision by Pakistan's Indus River System Authority (IRSA) to cut down water supply to Sindh province has deepened the dispute between both parties. The latest controversy emerged after IRSA, which regulates water sources of the Indus River informed the Sindh irrigation department about the reductions made in water share for the upcoming dry spell, The Express Tribune reported.

Recent decision by Pakistan's Indus River System Authority (IRSA) to cut down water supply to Sindh province has deepened the dispute between both parties. The latest controversy emerged after IRSA, which regulates water sources of the Indus River informed the Sindh irrigation department about the reductions made in water share for the upcoming dry spell, The Express Tribune reported. "Sindh being the tail-ender of the river suffers more water losses than others. So, applying the same losses to all Barrage canals is unjustified," Sindh Minister Jam Khan Shoro said. Sindh government will protest against the decision at all forums, he added. Shoro also said that "Sindh is already suffering from severe water shortage as IRSA and other relevant authorities defy the 1991 Water Accord opening of the Taunsa-Panjnad link canal. "Earlier, the chief engineer of Sindh's Guddu Barrage has also advised growers not to go for paddy sowing in May and June as the barrage as well as the province are experiencing 'worst water shortage in 60 years. 'The water shortage has also worsened Pakistan's garrison city due to the depleting groundwater level and scorching heat. Water shortage in Rawal Dam and Khanpur Dam has also led to the crisis as both the dams have almost touched the dead level, The Express Tribune reported citing officials.

Dispute deepens between Sindh, IRSA after authorities cuts down water supply

Most of the prominent cities in Pakistan do not have safe drinking water for citizens, according to data presented by the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government at National Assembly.&nbsp;

According to Dawn, the data presented by Shibli Faraz, federal Minister for Science and Technology on the floor of the house in response to a question asked by opposition leader shows that out of the 29 cities where underground water was tested by the Pakistan Council of Research of Water Resources (PCRWR), there are 20 cities where more than 50 per cent water obtained from various sources was found to be unsafe.

The PCRWR has declared 100 per cent underground water in three cities -- Mirpurkhas and Shaheed Benazirabad (Nawabshah) in Sindh and Gilgit -- as unsafe for drinking. It further shows that the underground water obtained from nine sources each in Sialkot and Gujrat is 100 per cent safe for drinking purposes.

In July, Parliamentary Secretary National Health Services Dr Nausheen Hamid has said that Pakistan's per capita water availability has declined by 400 per cent from 5,600 cubic metres in 1947 to around 1,038 cubic metres in 2021.&nbsp;

"This is a matter of serious concern," Dawn quoted Hamid as saying at a webinar on "Water on the roll: improving access to water in Pakistan."

Noting that Pakistan was the fifth most populous country in the world, she said water scarcity was a "very serious threat" that will aggravate by 2025, leaving very limited water for use. She also highlighted that inadequate supply of water further aggravated food security in the country. Experts have earlier warned that a famine-like situation may arise in Pakistan due to the scarcity of water across the country if the issue is not resolved timely, Geo News reported. As per the report, water scarcity in the country has set alarm bells ringing after rivers have dried up due to low rainfall.

Water experts warn that if new water reservoirs are not created and water wastage is not stopped, Pakistan will face a famine-like situation. In March, a Washington-based magazine, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) placed Pakistan at the third position in the list of countries facing acute water scarcity.&nbsp;

Most of the prominent cities in Pakistan do not have safe drinking water for citizens, according to data presented by the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government at National Assembly.

Most of the prominent cities in Pakistan do not have safe drinking water for citizens, according to data presented by the Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government at National Assembly. According to Dawn, the data presented by Shibli Faraz, federal Minister for Science and Technology on the floor of the house in response to a question asked by opposition leader shows that out of the 29 cities where underground water was tested by the Pakistan Council of Research of Water Resources (PCRWR), there are 20 cities where more than 50 per cent water obtained from various sources was found to be unsafe. The PCRWR has declared 100 per cent underground water in three cities -- Mirpurkhas and Shaheed Benazirabad (Nawabshah) in Sindh and Gilgit -- as unsafe for drinking. It further shows that the underground water obtained from nine sources each in Sialkot and Gujrat is 100 per cent safe for drinking purposes. In July, Parliamentary Secretary National Health Services Dr Nausheen Hamid has said that Pakistan's per capita water availability has declined by 400 per cent from 5,600 cubic metres in 1947 to around 1,038 cubic metres in 2021. "This is a matter of serious concern," Dawn quoted Hamid as saying at a webinar on "Water on the roll: improving access to water in Pakistan." Noting that Pakistan was the fifth most populous country in the world, she said water scarcity was a "very serious threat" that will aggravate by 2025, leaving very limited water for use. She also highlighted that inadequate supply of water further aggravated food security in the country. Experts have earlier warned that a famine-like situation may arise in Pakistan due to the scarcity of water across the country if the issue is not resolved timely, Geo News reported. As per the report, water scarcity in the country has set alarm bells ringing after rivers have dried up due to low rainfall. Water experts warn that if new water reservoirs are not created and water wastage is not stopped, Pakistan will face a famine-like situation. In March, a Washington-based magazine, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) placed Pakistan at the third position in the list of countries facing acute water scarcity.

20 Pakistan cities lack safe drinking water, reveals govt data

Environmentalists say desalination decimates ocean life, costs too much money and energy. But as Western states face an epic drought, regulators appear ready to approve a desalination plant in Huntington Beach, California.

California approves desalination plant as western states face an epic drought

Hundreds of Iranians marched through Tehran in rare protests over blackouts and power outages. Workers in the lucrative oil industry have also gone on strike. How will this instability affect Iran's upcoming change of guard? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Iran: Drought triggers anti-govt protests

A demonstrator was shot dead during&nbsp;protests&nbsp;against&nbsp;water&nbsp;shortages in drought-hit Khuzestan in southwestern&nbsp;Iran,&nbsp;state&nbsp;media&nbsp;reported Saturday, with an official blaming the death on "opportunists and rioters".

The demonstrator was&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in the Khuzestan province town of Shadegan, the official IRNA news agency said.

The province is&nbsp;Iran's main oil-producing region and one of its wealthiest, but it has been hit by a persistent drought that has led to tensions since late March.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-president-hassan-rouhani-issues-rare-apology-for-power-cuts-396591">Iran President Hassan Rouhani issues rare apology for power cuts</a>

"Last night (Friday), a number of Shadegan's people had gathered to protest&nbsp;water&nbsp;shortages due to the drought, during which opportunists and rioters shot dead one of the demonstrators," the county's acting governor, Omid Sabripour, told IRNA.

Sabripour said the perpetrators "sought to agitate the people by shooting in the air", and a "young Shadegan resident" was shot in the process.

In separate comments to the ISNA news agency, Sabripour said&nbsp;the shooting was directed at both the demonstrators and security forces.

He added that the victim was a "30-year-old passer-by" and that those responsible were identified.

Some were arrested on Friday night, with a manhunt launched for the others.

Iran&nbsp;has endured repeated droughts over the past&nbsp;decade, particularly in the south.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-detects-technical-fault-in-bushehr-nuclear-power-plant-392978">Iran detects 'technical fault' in Bushehr nuclear power plant</a>

Earlier this month, President Hassan Rouhani said the drought was "unprecedented", with average rainfall down 52 per cent compared to the previous year.

The Islamic republic has also experienced regular floods in recent years, made worse when torrential rain falls on sun-baked earth.

In other parts of the country, floods over the past three days have&nbsp;killed&nbsp;at least four people, with two others missing, Iranian Red Crescent Society spokesman Mohammad-Hassan Qosian told IRNA on Saturday.

Another person was&nbsp;killed&nbsp;by lightning.

'Insecurity'&nbsp;

Khuzestan's governor on Friday dismissed videos of&nbsp;protests&nbsp;as false.

"Some seek to agitate the people and publish fake videos," Qasem Soleimani-Dashtaki told IRNA.

Videos on social&nbsp;media&nbsp;apparently showed&nbsp;protests&nbsp;in several Khuzestan towns, including Susangerd, Mahshahr and Hamidiyeh as well as Shadegan.

Farsi-language&nbsp;media&nbsp;based abroad said security forces had cracked down on protesters demonstrating against severe&nbsp;water&nbsp;shortages&nbsp;on Thursday, but domestic&nbsp;media&nbsp;played down the reports.

Khuzestan MP Abdollah Izadpanah warned on Friday that "Khuzestan's insecurity means a lack of security for the whole country."

He blamed the&nbsp;water&nbsp;shortages on "mistakes and unjustified decisions" such as the extraction of&nbsp;water&nbsp;from Khuzestan's rivers to other provinces, ISNA reported.

On Friday, the government sent a delegation to Khuzestan to address the problem.

This month, rolling blackouts began in the capital Tehran and several other large cities, which officials blamed on the impact of the drought on hydroelectric power generation, as well as surging demand.

Power cuts in the peak summer months are not uncommon in&nbsp;Iran, but the ongoing drought has intensified the situation.

Khuzestan is home to a largely Sunni Arab minority, which has frequently complained of marginalisation in mainly Shiite&nbsp;Iran.

In 2019, the province was a hotspot of anti-government&nbsp;protests&nbsp;that had shaken other areas of the Islamic republic.

Over the years, blistering summer heatwaves and seasonal sandstorms blowing in from Saudi Arabia and neighbouring Iraq have dried up Khuzestan's once-fertile plains.

Scientists say climate change amplifies droughts, and their intensity and frequency, in turn, threaten food security.

A demonstrator was shot dead during protests against water shortages in drought-hit Khuzestan in southwestern Iran, state media reported Saturday, with an official blaming the death on "opportunists and rioters".

A demonstrator was shot dead during protests against water shortages in drought-hit Khuzestan in southwestern Iran, state media reported Saturday, with an official blaming the death on "opportunists and rioters". The demonstrator was killed in the Khuzestan province town of Shadegan, the official IRNA news agency said. The province is Iran's main oil-producing region and one of its wealthiest, but it has been hit by a persistent drought that has led to tensions since late March. Also read | Iran President Hassan Rouhani issues rare apology for power cuts "Last night (Friday), a number of Shadegan's people had gathered to protest water shortages due to the drought, during which opportunists and rioters shot dead one of the demonstrators," the county's acting governor, Omid Sabripour, told IRNA. Sabripour said the perpetrators "sought to agitate the people by shooting in the air", and a "young Shadegan resident" was shot in the process. In separate comments to the ISNA news agency, Sabripour said the shooting was directed at both the demonstrators and security forces. He added that the victim was a "30-year-old passer-by" and that those responsible were identified. Some were arrested on Friday night, with a manhunt launched for the others. Iran has endured repeated droughts over the past decade, particularly in the south. Also read | Iran detects 'technical fault' in Bushehr nuclear power plant Earlier this month, President Hassan Rouhani said the drought was "unprecedented", with average rainfall down 52 per cent compared to the previous year. The Islamic republic has also experienced regular floods in recent years, made worse when torrential rain falls on sun-baked earth. In other parts of the country, floods over the past three days have killed at least four people, with two others missing, Iranian Red Crescent Society spokesman Mohammad-Hassan Qosian told IRNA on Saturday. Another person was killed by lightning. 'Insecurity' Khuzestan's governor on Friday dismissed videos of protests as false. "Some seek to agitate the people and publish fake videos," Qasem Soleimani-Dashtaki told IRNA. Videos on social media apparently showed protests in several Khuzestan towns, including Susangerd, Mahshahr and Hamidiyeh as well as Shadegan. Farsi-language media based abroad said security forces had cracked down on protesters demonstrating against severe water shortages on Thursday, but domestic media played down the reports. Khuzestan MP Abdollah Izadpanah warned on Friday that "Khuzestan's insecurity means a lack of security for the whole country." He blamed the water shortages on "mistakes and unjustified decisions" such as the extraction of water from Khuzestan's rivers to other provinces, ISNA reported. On Friday, the government sent a delegation to Khuzestan to address the problem. This month, rolling blackouts began in the capital Tehran and several other large cities, which officials blamed on the impact of the drought on hydroelectric power generation, as well as surging demand. Power cuts in the peak summer months are not uncommon in Iran, but the ongoing drought has intensified the situation. Khuzestan is home to a largely Sunni Arab minority, which has frequently complained of marginalisation in mainly Shiite Iran. In 2019, the province was a hotspot of anti-government protests that had shaken other areas of the Islamic republic. Over the years, blistering summer heatwaves and seasonal sandstorms blowing in from Saudi Arabia and neighbouring Iraq have dried up Khuzestan's once-fertile plains. Scientists say climate change amplifies droughts, and their intensity and frequency, in turn, threaten food security.

One shot dead in Iran water shortage protests: State media

Communities in&nbsp;Madagascar&nbsp;are on the verge of starvation, with women and children walking for hours to reach food after the worst drought in four decades devastated the south of the island, the World Food Programme said.

Acute malnutrition has almost doubled over the last four months, the WFP said, with more than a quarter of people suffering in one area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humanitarian-disaster-clay-quelling-hunger-in-famine-hit-madagascar-348659">Humanitarian disaster: Clay quelling hunger in famine-hit Madagascar</a>

"I met women and children who were holding on for dear life, they'd walked for hours to get to our food distribution points," David Beasley, WFP executive director, said in a statement.

"There have been back-to-back droughts in&nbsp;Madagascar&nbsp;which have pushed communities right to the very edge of starvation. Families are suffering and people are already dying from severe hunger," he added. Beasley blamed climate change for the crisis.

WFP said $78.6 million was needed to fight the crisis.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-the-sand-eaters-of-madagascar-348681/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Families have been living on raw red cactus fruits, wild leaves and locusts for months now," Beasley said.

Bole, a mother of three from Ambiriky,&nbsp;in southern&nbsp;Madagascar, who also is caring for two orphans after their mother died, told the agency that to survive they relied on cactus leaves for their meals.

"We have nothing left. Their mother is dead and my husband is dead. What do you want me to say? Our life is all about looking for cactus leaves again and again to survive," she said.

Communities in Madagascar are on the verge of starvation, with women and children walking for hours to reach food after the worst drought in four decades devastated the south of the island, the World Food Programme said.

Communities in Madagascar are on the verge of starvation, with women and children walking for hours to reach food after the worst drought in four decades devastated the south of the island, the World Food Programme said. Acute malnutrition has almost doubled over the last four months, the WFP said, with more than a quarter of people suffering in one area. Also read | Humanitarian disaster: Clay quelling hunger in famine-hit Madagascar "I met women and children who were holding on for dear life, they'd walked for hours to get to our food distribution points," David Beasley, WFP executive director, said in a statement. "There have been back-to-back droughts in Madagascar which have pushed communities right to the very edge of starvation. Families are suffering and people are already dying from severe hunger," he added. Beasley blamed climate change for the crisis. WFP said $78.6 million was needed to fight the crisis. "Families have been living on raw red cactus fruits, wild leaves and locusts for months now," Beasley said. Bole, a mother of three from Ambiriky, in southern Madagascar, who also is caring for two orphans after their mother died, told the agency that to survive they relied on cactus leaves for their meals. "We have nothing left. Their mother is dead and my husband is dead. What do you want me to say? Our life is all about looking for cactus leaves again and again to survive," she said.

Madagascar communities on verge of starvation after drought: World Food Programme

With temperatures soaring to over the normal level in Pakistan's Sindh, the province has been facing an acute shortage of water.

Low levels of underground water and lack of supply from dams are being largely blamed for the parched areas.

The Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led Pakistan People`s Party (PPP) has announced holding protests against Imran Khan`s government at the district level in the Sindh province from June 3 to June 15 against acute water shortage.

It also said that the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) in this regard had done an injustice by curtailment of gas to the residents of the province, reported The News International.

The decision to this effect was made by the executive committee of the PPP Sindh chapter. PPP Sindh President Nisar Ahmed Khuhro chaired the meeting.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference after the meeting, Khuhro said they would not be silent anymore about the excesses being committed by the federal government and IRSA against the province.

It was announced that protest demonstrations would be held in the Larkana division on June 3, five districts of the Hyderabad division on June 5, Mirpurkhas division on June 7, Sukkur division on June 9, Shaheed Benazirabad division on June 11, the remaining five districts of the Hyderabad division on June 13, and Karachi division on June 15, reported The News International.

The PPP Sindh president said the executive committee had expressed serious reservations on the water shortage, price-hike, unemployment and curtailment of power and gas supply to the province, reported The News International. He added that the agriculture sector of the province had to suffer losses to the tune of billions of rupees due to the worsening crisis of irrigation water.&nbsp;

He maintained that the province had been facing a shortage of irrigation water up to 40 per cent. The Chashma-Jehlum (CJ) and Taunsa-Punjnad (TP) link canals in the upcountry had been unduly opened despite water shortage in the system, he said.

Khuhro alleged that IRSA had been acting unjustly as if it had become a `B` team of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in the federal government, reported The News International.

He said Sindh was being denied its due water share in violation of the constitution. Pumping machines had been illegally installed in the river system upcountry to steal the water of the province, he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

With temperatures soaring to over the normal level in Pakistan's Sindh, the province has been facing an acute shortage of water. Low levels of underground water and lack of supply from dams are being largely blamed for the parched areas.

With temperatures soaring to over the normal level in Pakistan's Sindh, the province has been facing an acute shortage of water. Low levels of underground water and lack of supply from dams are being largely blamed for the parched areas. The Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led Pakistan People`s Party (PPP) has announced holding protests against Imran Khan`s government at the district level in the Sindh province from June 3 to June 15 against acute water shortage. It also said that the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) in this regard had done an injustice by curtailment of gas to the residents of the province, reported The News International. The decision to this effect was made by the executive committee of the PPP Sindh chapter. PPP Sindh President Nisar Ahmed Khuhro chaired the meeting. Addressing a press conference after the meeting, Khuhro said they would not be silent anymore about the excesses being committed by the federal government and IRSA against the province. It was announced that protest demonstrations would be held in the Larkana division on June 3, five districts of the Hyderabad division on June 5, Mirpurkhas division on June 7, Sukkur division on June 9, Shaheed Benazirabad division on June 11, the remaining five districts of the Hyderabad division on June 13, and Karachi division on June 15, reported The News International. The PPP Sindh president said the executive committee had expressed serious reservations on the water shortage, price-hike, unemployment and curtailment of power and gas supply to the province, reported The News International. He added that the agriculture sector of the province had to suffer losses to the tune of billions of rupees due to the worsening crisis of irrigation water. He maintained that the province had been facing a shortage of irrigation water up to 40 per cent. The Chashma-Jehlum (CJ) and Taunsa-Punjnad (TP) link canals in the upcountry had been unduly opened despite water shortage in the system, he said. Khuhro alleged that IRSA had been acting unjustly as if it had become a `B` team of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf in the federal government, reported The News International. He said Sindh was being denied its due water share in violation of the constitution. Pumping machines had been illegally installed in the river system upcountry to steal the water of the province, he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Parched Pakistan: Opposition to hold protests against Imran Khan's govt over water shortage

Lake Oroville, the second-largest reservoir in California that provides drinking water to more than 25 million people is at less than half of its average capacity. The state is facing yet another hot dry summer ahead and the governor has declared a drought emergency in 41 of 58 counties.

As California’s drought worsens, emergency declared in 41 of 58 counties

Summer has not even begun and Lake Oroville, the second-largest reservoir in California that provides drinking water to more than 25 million people, is at less than half of its average capacity at this time of year.&nbsp;

It is a worrying indication of the worsening drought conditions in the northern part of the Golden State.&nbsp;

"When we go into a year like this with the reservoir low and with really dry conditions throughout the state, that is concerning," John Yarbrough, the assistant deputy director of the California Department of Water Resources, told AFP.&nbsp;

"The reservoir is much lower than we would like to see it, much lower than typical at this time of year. It's about 47 per cent of average," he said, pointing to the cracked earth forming the lake wall.&nbsp;

Since May 10, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency linked to drought in more than 40 counties. Conditions in Butte County, where Lake Oroville is located, are already seen as "extreme," the highest level.&nbsp;

And the situation, exacerbated by the effects of climate change across the western United States, is not expected to improve before the rains return in five or six months.&nbsp;

Yarbrough said that in 2019, which he called a 'good year’, the water level reached the trees on the edge of the dam, meaning it was about 50 meters (165 feet) higher than usual. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Residents of the area told AFP, they had never seen dry conditions like this before.&nbsp;

Many of them recalled how in 2017, they had to evacuate because torrential rains had prompted authorities to fear that the dam would break under the pressure. Not even five years later, the situation has shifted dramatically.&nbsp;

Summer has not even begun and Lake Oroville, the second-largest reservoir in California that provides drinking water to more than 25 million people, is at less than half of its average capacity at this time of year.

Summer has not even begun and Lake Oroville, the second-largest reservoir in California that provides drinking water to more than 25 million people, is at less than half of its average capacity at this time of year. It is a worrying indication of the worsening drought conditions in the northern part of the Golden State. "When we go into a year like this with the reservoir low and with really dry conditions throughout the state, that is concerning," John Yarbrough, the assistant deputy director of the California Department of Water Resources, told AFP. "The reservoir is much lower than we would like to see it, much lower than typical at this time of year. It's about 47 per cent of average," he said, pointing to the cracked earth forming the lake wall. Since May 10, California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency linked to drought in more than 40 counties. Conditions in Butte County, where Lake Oroville is located, are already seen as "extreme," the highest level. And the situation, exacerbated by the effects of climate change across the western United States, is not expected to improve before the rains return in five or six months. Yarbrough said that in 2019, which he called a 'good year’, the water level reached the trees on the edge of the dam, meaning it was about 50 meters (165 feet) higher than usual. Residents of the area told AFP, they had never seen dry conditions like this before. Many of them recalled how in 2017, they had to evacuate because torrential rains had prompted authorities to fear that the dam would break under the pressure. Not even five years later, the situation has shifted dramatically.

California already in throes of drought as summer looms 

One of Taiwan's largest lakes is gaining attention not for its abundant blue water, but for its noticeably dry lake bed and cracked earth..

Giant lake in Taiwan shrinks amid record drought

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a drought emergency in two North California counties on Wednesday.

The declaration has been specifically targeted to Mendocino and Sonoma counties where the drought conditions are worse than the rest of the state.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drought-along-california-oregon-border-revives-debate-on-water-rights-377253">Drought along California-Oregon border revives debate on water rights</a>

California is now bracing itself for yet another year of drought and wildfire after massive destruction took place last year.

"Oftentimes we overstate the word historic, but this is indeed a historic moment, certainly historic for this particular lake, Mendocino," the governor said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-addressing-climate-change-issue-efficiently-377435" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-addressing-climate-change-issue-efficiently-377435&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiVw8zT6pHwAhVNumMGHW5hCTYQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0je-HC7kf4d4MHJGvwowRm" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-addressing-climate-change-issue-efficiently-377435" target="_blank">'India addressing climate change issue efficiently'</a>

Newsom has also urged cities to prepare for water shortage in the upcoming months even though the Governor has not yet declared a drought emergency. However, the State Water Resources Control Board has issued warnings to 40,000 water rights holders to start conserving water.

“If you’re in a different part of the state, you probably need to know that this will one day happen to you,” Karla Nemeth, director of the California Department of Water Resources, said.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a drought emergency in two North California counties on Wednesday. The declaration has been specifically targeted to Mendocino and Sonoma counties where the drought conditions are worse than the rest of the state.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a drought emergency in two North California counties on Wednesday. The declaration has been specifically targeted to Mendocino and Sonoma counties where the drought conditions are worse than the rest of the state. Also read | Drought along California-Oregon border revives debate on water rights California is now bracing itself for yet another year of drought and wildfire after massive destruction took place last year. "Oftentimes we overstate the word historic, but this is indeed a historic moment, certainly historic for this particular lake, Mendocino," the governor said. Also read | 'India addressing climate change issue efficiently' Newsom has also urged cities to prepare for water shortage in the upcoming months even though the Governor has not yet declared a drought emergency. However, the State Water Resources Control Board has issued warnings to 40,000 water rights holders to start conserving water. “If you’re in a different part of the state, you probably need to know that this will one day happen to you,” Karla Nemeth, director of the California Department of Water Resources, said.

Start conserving: California governor declares drought emergency in 2 counties

The region along the California-Oregon border in the United States is witnessing one of the worst droughts in history. Owing to this, hundreds of farmers could have to suffice with less resources to irrigate.&nbsp;

These farmers are responsible for sustaining multiple endangered fish species that are important to local tribes in the region. To carve out a plan, the US Bureau of Reclamation will announce how the water this season will be divided after the decision was delayed by a month. The bureau is responsible for allocating water in the “Klamath” project.

Al Jazeera reported that for the first time in two decades, over 1,400 irrigators could be left without any water to farm their 225,000 acres of land. Besides local tribes, six wildlife refuges also depend on the project’s water, but may also be left without without this year.

Also read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/recent-droughts-and-heatwaves-in-europe-worst-in-2000-years-study-claims-370852" hreflang="en">Recent droughts and heatwaves in Europe worst in 2,000 years, study claims</a>

Over the years, farmers, tribes, and conservationists have sparred over who has the right to use the water. Two tribes - the Klamath and Yurok have treaties that guarantee protection to their fisheries.

The last time water was cut off from the region was in 2001 when a protest took place whereby 15,000 people scooped up water from the Klamath River and passed it on an irrigation canal.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/opinions/the-country-must-prepare-for-a-drought-year-186760" hreflang="en">The country must prepare for a drought year</a>

The Klamath Water Users Association recently sent out a warning to its members that “little to no water” would be available for irrigation from the Upper Klamath Lake. A meeting to address the crisis is set to take place on Wednesday.

The region along the California-Oregon border in the United States is witnessing one of the worst droughts in history. Owing to this, hundreds of farmers could have to suffice with less resources to irrigate.

The region along the California-Oregon border in the United States is witnessing one of the worst droughts in history. Owing to this, hundreds of farmers could have to suffice with less resources to irrigate. These farmers are responsible for sustaining multiple endangered fish species that are important to local tribes in the region. To carve out a plan, the US Bureau of Reclamation will announce how the water this season will be divided after the decision was delayed by a month. The bureau is responsible for allocating water in the “Klamath” project. Al Jazeera reported that for the first time in two decades, over 1,400 irrigators could be left without any water to farm their 225,000 acres of land. Besides local tribes, six wildlife refuges also depend on the project’s water, but may also be left without without this year. Also read: Recent droughts and heatwaves in Europe worst in 2,000 years, study claims Over the years, farmers, tribes, and conservationists have sparred over who has the right to use the water. Two tribes - the Klamath and Yurok have treaties that guarantee protection to their fisheries. The last time water was cut off from the region was in 2001 when a protest took place whereby 15,000 people scooped up water from the Klamath River and passed it on an irrigation canal. Also read: The country must prepare for a drought year The Klamath Water Users Association recently sent out a warning to its members that “little to no water” would be available for irrigation from the Upper Klamath Lake. A meeting to address the crisis is set to take place on Wednesday.

Drought along California-Oregon border revives debate on water rights

Facing severe drought as it enters its hottest season, Thailand has launched groundwater extraction operations in its most arid regions to tap sources deep beneath the soil.

Thailand taps groundwater resources as it enters hottest season

Taiwan is facing the island’s most severe water shortage in 56 years and has set up an emergency response centre to combat the drought. The country has also set up multiple wells, seeded clouds and besought a gold-faced sea goddess to help the sub-tropical island ride out its most serious drought in about half a century.

The drought is worse&nbsp;across a band of western Taiwan, including the major metropolises of Hsinchu, home to many of Taiwan's renowned tech firms, Taichung in the centre of the island, and Tainan and Kaohsiung to the south.

Water levels in four major reservoirs have fallen to around or below one-tenth of capacity. Some chipmakers are buying water by the truckload for their foundries, though supplies so far are generally continuing uninterrupted for households.

Authorities have been piping in water from other reservoirs to the main one for Hsinchu, but it was still not enough and they were now drilling wells.

Officials hope the 'plum rain' season that starts around late spring will help, but in the meantime are taking more drastic steps.

In Taichung earlier this month the Water Resources Agency took the unusual step of sending its top official for central Taiwan to a three-hour religious ceremony to pray for rain, the first time the event has been held in 58 years.

Some 3,000 people, mostly farmers as well as Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, prayed to the sea goddess Mazu, her gold face signifying her divinity and a popular deity believed to bring good fortune and end drought.

Also, Taiwan's air force has used C-130 transport aircraft to seed the clouds, while water resources officials back up the effort from the ground by firing chemicals into the air. Agriculture accounts for more than 70 per cent of water consumption in Taiwan, to grow rice and fruit like mango and pineapple.

Taiwan is facing the island’s most severe water shortage in 56 years and has set up an emergency response centre to combat the drought. The country has also set up multiple wells, seeded clouds and besought a gold-faced sea goddess to help the sub-tropical island ride out its most serious drought in about half a century.

Taiwan is facing the island’s most severe water shortage in 56 years and has set up an emergency response centre to combat the drought. The country has also set up multiple wells, seeded clouds and besought a gold-faced sea goddess to help the sub-tropical island ride out its most serious drought in about half a century. The drought is worse across a band of western Taiwan, including the major metropolises of Hsinchu, home to many of Taiwan's renowned tech firms, Taichung in the centre of the island, and Tainan and Kaohsiung to the south. Water levels in four major reservoirs have fallen to around or below one-tenth of capacity. Some chipmakers are buying water by the truckload for their foundries, though supplies so far are generally continuing uninterrupted for households. Authorities have been piping in water from other reservoirs to the main one for Hsinchu, but it was still not enough and they were now drilling wells. Officials hope the 'plum rain' season that starts around late spring will help, but in the meantime are taking more drastic steps. In Taichung earlier this month the Water Resources Agency took the unusual step of sending its top official for central Taiwan to a three-hour religious ceremony to pray for rain, the first time the event has been held in 58 years. Some 3,000 people, mostly farmers as well as Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, prayed to the sea goddess Mazu, her gold face signifying her divinity and a popular deity believed to bring good fortune and end drought. Also, Taiwan's air force has used C-130 transport aircraft to seed the clouds, while water resources officials back up the effort from the ground by firing chemicals into the air. Agriculture accounts for more than 70 per cent of water consumption in Taiwan, to grow rice and fruit like mango and pineapple.

Taiwan faces its most severe water shortage in 56 years; sea goddess, air force C-130s called upon

According to the Mekong River Commission (MRC), farmers and fishermen along the Mekong river are facing drought. Mekong river recorded 70 per cent less rainfall this year.

Drought hits farmers, fishermen in Mekong Delta

While the nation fights the coronavirus, Karnataka is also fighting a battle against an incoming drought.

Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa expressed his concern over the acute water shortage in few districts of North Karnataka.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-colonel-major-killed-in-kupwara-encounter-296332">Also read:&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter</a>

He wrote a letter to the Maharashtra Chief Minister&nbsp;Uddhav Thackeray requesting him to release six TMC water from the Maharashtra&nbsp;reservoirs to the the rivers passing through and in Karnataka.

The water shortage has been acute since early March in mainly few districts, namely&nbsp;Belagavi, Vijayapura, Bagalkot, Kalaburagi, Yadagiri and Raichur.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-starts-flypast-from-dal-lake-to-salute-covid-19-workers-transporting-medical-supplies-too-296340">Also read:&nbsp;IAF starts flypast from Dal Lake to salute COVID-19 workers; transporting medical supplies too</a>

"I request you to kindly direct the concerned authorities to release 3 TMC of water from Warna/Koyna reservoirs to Krishna river and 3 TMC of water from Ujjaini reservoir to Bhima river on humanitarian grounds for drinking purpose," Yediyurappa said in his letter.

This is not the first time Karnataka has asked Maharashtra government to help the state in times of drought. In recent past, too, Maharashtra has helped Karnataka by releasing water from its reservoirs for Karnataka, to accomodate the needs of humans as well as livestock of Karnataka.

While the nation fights the coronavirus, Karnataka is also fighting a battle against an incoming drought. Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa expressed his concern over the acute water shortage in few districts of North Karnataka.

While the nation fights the coronavirus, Karnataka is also fighting a battle against an incoming drought. Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa expressed his concern over the acute water shortage in few districts of North Karnataka. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter He wrote a letter to the Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray requesting him to release six TMC water from the Maharashtra reservoirs to the the rivers passing through and in Karnataka. The water shortage has been acute since early March in mainly few districts, namely Belagavi, Vijayapura, Bagalkot, Kalaburagi, Yadagiri and Raichur. Also read: IAF starts flypast from Dal Lake to salute COVID-19 workers; transporting medical supplies too "I request you to kindly direct the concerned authorities to release 3 TMC of water from Warna/Koyna reservoirs to Krishna river and 3 TMC of water from Ujjaini reservoir to Bhima river on humanitarian grounds for drinking purpose," Yediyurappa said in his letter. This is not the first time Karnataka has asked Maharashtra government to help the state in times of drought. In recent past, too, Maharashtra has helped Karnataka by releasing water from its reservoirs for Karnataka, to accomodate the needs of humans as well as livestock of Karnataka.

BS Yediyurappa urges Maharashtra to help in the drought-like situation

The Australian government on Wednesday approved an initiative to kill as many as 10,00 feral camels in an aboriginal region using firearms.

Officials in the remote northwest of south Australia approved the cull, which is set to last for five days, during which marksmen in helicopters will use firearms to shoot and kill the camels.

The country apart from being struck by massive bush fires is also facing severe droughts. The feral camels consume too much water in the drought-hit area.

This decision is bound to be controversial, taking into consideration the estimated half a billion animals perished due to the unprecedented bush fires that continue to be uncontrolled.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-to-kill-up-to-10000-camels-amid-bushfires-273004/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

According to a Facebook post put up by the local administration, the camels were trespassing into properties and trying to drink the water of air conditioner ducts as rising temperatures continue to make the region even more arid.

‘Feral camels breed at such a rate the population doubles every nine years, contributing more greenhouse gases that worsen climate change. One million feral camels emitting one-tonne carbon dioxide per year is the equivalent of having an additional 400,000 cars on the road. With the number continuing to grow as the camel population swells without critically needed management intervention, as is being taken by locals and partners through the development of cull plans’.

The post also seeks federal government to award carbon credits to the region for getting rid of feral animals that were contributing to the emission of greenhouse gases.

Netizens are enraged over the development and have questioned the silence of animal rights groups on the matter so far.

The environment department of the country that has supported this decision. Officials say the drought has created critical animal welfare issues, as camels have died of thirst and often trample on each other to find water.

Australia has experienced its hottest and driest year in 2019, with severe drought causing towns to run out of the water and worsening the raging bush fires.

Interestingly camels were introduced to Australia from India in the 1840s to explore the interiors of the nation. With time Australia became home to the largest wild camel population in the world with over one million of the animals roaming the inland deserts of the vast continental country.

While the culling operation is the biggest in this state in South Australia, countries have in the past resorted to culling the wild for multiple reasons. In 2005 South Africa has used controlled culling as a means of limiting the elephant population in the region.

Draft proposals in 2014 in the United States declared mute swans as prohibited invasive species and outlined plans to eliminate them by 2025. The non-native beautiful swans were believed to be destroying the habitats of native ducks and geese.

In 2016, Finnish authorities had ordered the culling of 20% of the endangered grey wolves.

In 2018, Zambia revived plans to cull 2000 hippos but was forced to cancel plans owing to opposition against the move.

In India, the state of Uttarakhand ordered for the culling of wild boars in 2016 after began venturing outside protected areas. In 2016, Kerala went on a dog culling spree that invited much criticism from animal rights groups. In 2019, the government approved culling of monkeys for a year in Himachal Pradesh, as they were found to be causing a nuisance in non-forest areas.

The Australian government on Wednesday approved an initiative to kill as many as 10,00 feral camels in an aboriginal region using firearms. Officials in the remote northwest of south Australia approved the cull, which is set to last for five days, during which marksmen in helicopters will use firearms to shoot and kill the camels.

The Australian government on Wednesday approved an initiative to kill as many as 10,00 feral camels in an aboriginal region using firearms. Officials in the remote northwest of south Australia approved the cull, which is set to last for five days, during which marksmen in helicopters will use firearms to shoot and kill the camels. The country apart from being struck by massive bush fires is also facing severe droughts. The feral camels consume too much water in the drought-hit area. This decision is bound to be controversial, taking into consideration the estimated half a billion animals perished due to the unprecedented bush fires that continue to be uncontrolled. Watch: According to a Facebook post put up by the local administration, the camels were trespassing into properties and trying to drink the water of air conditioner ducts as rising temperatures continue to make the region even more arid. ‘Feral camels breed at such a rate the population doubles every nine years, contributing more greenhouse gases that worsen climate change. One million feral camels emitting one-tonne carbon dioxide per year is the equivalent of having an additional 400,000 cars on the road. With the number continuing to grow as the camel population swells without critically needed management intervention, as is being taken by locals and partners through the development of cull plans’. The post also seeks federal government to award carbon credits to the region for getting rid of feral animals that were contributing to the emission of greenhouse gases. Netizens are enraged over the development and have questioned the silence of animal rights groups on the matter so far. The environment department of the country that has supported this decision. Officials say the drought has created critical animal welfare issues, as camels have died of thirst and often trample on each other to find water. Australia has experienced its hottest and driest year in 2019, with severe drought causing towns to run out of the water and worsening the raging bush fires. Interestingly camels were introduced to Australia from India in the 1840s to explore the interiors of the nation. With time Australia became home to the largest wild camel population in the world with over one million of the animals roaming the inland deserts of the vast continental country. While the culling operation is the biggest in this state in South Australia, countries have in the past resorted to culling the wild for multiple reasons. In 2005 South Africa has used controlled culling as a means of limiting the elephant population in the region. Draft proposals in 2014 in the United States declared mute swans as prohibited invasive species and outlined plans to eliminate them by 2025. The non-native beautiful swans were believed to be destroying the habitats of native ducks and geese. In 2016, Finnish authorities had ordered the culling of 20% of the endangered grey wolves. In 2018, Zambia revived plans to cull 2000 hippos but was forced to cancel plans owing to opposition against the move. In India, the state of Uttarakhand ordered for the culling of wild boars in 2016 after began venturing outside protected areas. In 2016, Kerala went on a dog culling spree that invited much criticism from animal rights groups. In 2019, the government approved culling of monkeys for a year in Himachal Pradesh, as they were found to be causing a nuisance in non-forest areas.

Australia: Over 10,000 camels to be culled in a bid to save water

Climate change fears exacerbated as Victoria Falls shrink to trickle

Residents of Harivanshpur village, who are faced with the problem of the severe shortage of water and jolted by the death of several children, have announced a reward of Rs 15,000 for locating their MP and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan for not being with them in the hour of the dire need.

They put up banners and pasted posters on their cattle on Saturday to convey their anguish against Paswan.

They have also announced Rs 5,000 reward for finding out the local MLA, who is not around to address their woes.

"We are faced with multiple problems, but our MP or MLA has no time to visit us. Seven children died here. People have locked their houses and left. Even animals are dying as they have no water to drink," they said.

"Paswan is enjoying dishes at 5-star hotels and has no time to see us. These politicians enjoy all privileges after winning elections thanks to our votes, but forget us," said a woman.

Union Minister Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), an ally of the BJP, filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha as the NDA candidate from Bihar on Friday.

In the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, LJP contested six seats and won all of the seats.

Paswan's brothers Ramchandra Paswan and Pashupati Paras won from Samastipur and Hajipur seats respectively, while his son Chirag Paswan got re-elected from Jamui, all seats reserved for the scheduled castes.

Residents of Harivanshpur village, who are faced with the problem of the severe shortage of water and jolted by the death of several children, have announced a reward of Rs 15,000 for locating their MP and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan for not being with them in the hour of the dire need.

Residents of Harivanshpur village, who are faced with the problem of the severe shortage of water and jolted by the death of several children, have announced a reward of Rs 15,000 for locating their MP and Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan for not being with them in the hour of the dire need. They put up banners and pasted posters on their cattle on Saturday to convey their anguish against Paswan. They have also announced Rs 5,000 reward for finding out the local MLA, who is not around to address their woes. "We are faced with multiple problems, but our MP or MLA has no time to visit us. Seven children died here. People have locked their houses and left. Even animals are dying as they have no water to drink," they said. "Paswan is enjoying dishes at 5-star hotels and has no time to see us. These politicians enjoy all privileges after winning elections thanks to our votes, but forget us," said a woman. Union Minister Paswan, who heads the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP), an ally of the BJP, filed his nomination for the Rajya Sabha as the NDA candidate from Bihar on Friday. In the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections, LJP contested six seats and won all of the seats. Paswan's brothers Ramchandra Paswan and Pashupati Paras won from Samastipur and Hajipur seats respectively, while his son Chirag Paswan got re-elected from Jamui, all seats reserved for the scheduled castes.

Villagers announce Rs 15,000 reward for locating Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan

Bringing huge respite for shriveled Chennai, rains lashed several parts of the city here on Saturday.

This comes on the same day as the Tamil Nadu government, resorting to prayers in the face of acute water scarcity, conducted special `Yajna` at Patteeswarar temple in Perur.

State water supply minister S P Velumani was also present during the special prayers.

A similar event was reported from Madurai earlier in June, where unique prayers were offered to rain gods.

Tamil Nadu has been reeling under acute water stress for the past several months as Chennai`s Porur Lake, one of the main sources of water has reached its lowest level.&nbsp;

Moreover, scorching heat and delayed monsoon have further exacerbated the situation.

Bringing huge respite for shriveled Chennai, rains lashed several parts of the city here on Saturday. This comes on the same day as the Tamil Nadu government, resorting to prayers in the face of acute water scarcity, conducted special `Yajna` at Patteeswarar temple in Perur.

Bringing huge respite for shriveled Chennai, rains lashed several parts of the city here on Saturday. This comes on the same day as the Tamil Nadu government, resorting to prayers in the face of acute water scarcity, conducted special `Yajna` at Patteeswarar temple in Perur. State water supply minister S P Velumani was also present during the special prayers. A similar event was reported from Madurai earlier in June, where unique prayers were offered to rain gods. Tamil Nadu has been reeling under acute water stress for the past several months as Chennai`s Porur Lake, one of the main sources of water has reached its lowest level. Moreover, scorching heat and delayed monsoon have further exacerbated the situation.

Heavy rains bring respite to drought-hit Chennai

A day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-rejects-keralas-offer-of-20-lakh-litres-drinking-water-229085">Kerala extended support to Tamil Nadu </a>amid the severe water crisis in the state, Tamil Nadu chief minister K. Palaniswami on Friday urged the neighbouring state for further cooperation.

Welcoming Kerala's gesture to supply water to Tamil Nadu, the CM asked the Kerala government to cooperate in strengthening&nbsp;Mullaperiyar Dam.

Palaniswami said, "Tamil Nadu government is working to strengthen Mullaperiyar Dam in order to store more water. Unfortunately, the Kerala government is not letting us do this. I urge Kerala government to cooperate with us on this."&nbsp;

Pointing to the Supreme Court judgement on the Mullaiperiyar dam which had said that water could be stored to the full level of 152 ft after carrying out strengthening works, he alleged that Kerala, however, scuttled refurbishment works.

"I thank the Kerala Chief Minister, but 2 MLD water will not be sufficient. We are every day supplying 525 MLD water (in Chennai) and if 2 MLD water could be given every day, it will be useful for the people," he said.

"The four lakes that supply water to the city have dried up, the government has drawn up a plan to implement to bring water from Jolarpettai through railway. We'll get daily 10 MLD of water for the supply,"&nbsp;he added.

"Poondi, Chembarambakkam, Sholavaram and Red Hills reservoirs in Chennai have dried up and despite that supplies were being made to the people," he said.

The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu chief minister also raked up a controversy by his comments claiming that&nbsp;drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels but the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media.

(With inputs from agencies)

A day after Kerala extended support to Tamil Nadu amid the severe water crisis in the state, Tamil Nadu chief minister K. Palaniswami on Friday urged the neighbouring state for further cooperation.

A day after Kerala extended support to Tamil Nadu amid the severe water crisis in the state, Tamil Nadu chief minister K. Palaniswami on Friday urged the neighbouring state for further cooperation. Welcoming Kerala's gesture to supply water to Tamil Nadu, the CM asked the Kerala government to cooperate in strengthening Mullaperiyar Dam. Palaniswami said, "Tamil Nadu government is working to strengthen Mullaperiyar Dam in order to store more water. Unfortunately, the Kerala government is not letting us do this. I urge Kerala government to cooperate with us on this." Pointing to the Supreme Court judgement on the Mullaiperiyar dam which had said that water could be stored to the full level of 152 ft after carrying out strengthening works, he alleged that Kerala, however, scuttled refurbishment works. "I thank the Kerala Chief Minister, but 2 MLD water will not be sufficient. We are every day supplying 525 MLD water (in Chennai) and if 2 MLD water could be given every day, it will be useful for the people," he said. "The four lakes that supply water to the city have dried up, the government has drawn up a plan to implement to bring water from Jolarpettai through railway. We'll get daily 10 MLD of water for the supply," he added. "Poondi, Chembarambakkam, Sholavaram and Red Hills reservoirs in Chennai have dried up and despite that supplies were being made to the people," he said. The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu chief minister also raked up a controversy by his comments claiming that drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels but the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media. (With inputs from agencies)

Chennai water crisis: Palaniswami welcomes Kerala's water offer, asks for more cooperation

A report on equitable water distribution across Mumbai has been prepared and the Maharashtra government will ask the city civic body to implement it, Minister of State for Urban Development Yogesh Sagar said on Thursday.

He was responding to a question raised by NCP member Rahul Narvekar through a Calling Attention notice in the state Legislative Council.

"A comprehensive report on equitable water distribution for Mumbai city and its suburban areas is ready. The report will be shared with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) soon and the civic body will be asked to implement it," Sagar said in the House.

To another question, he said people living on forest land in Mumbai for years were not getting adequate drinking water supply, but the government will soon ensure it for them.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in 2016 announced setting up a committee to ensure equitable water distribution for the region coming under jurisdiction of the BMC.

The Mumbai civic body loses around 25 to 27 per cent water due to leakages, Sagar noted.

"The government is trying hard to minimise such losses so that it can cater to the growing drinking water demand," he said.

Sagar said though the number of city's permanent residents is limited, its floating population (those who keep moving from place to place) puts a lot of pressure on the administration.

"It is necessary to supply 270 litre of water per person in city areas, mainly due to the pressure of the floating population," the minister said

A report on equitable water distribution across Mumbai has been prepared and the Maharashtra government will ask the city civic body to implement it, Minister of State for Urban Development Yogesh Sagar said on Thursday.

A report on equitable water distribution across Mumbai has been prepared and the Maharashtra government will ask the city civic body to implement it, Minister of State for Urban Development Yogesh Sagar said on Thursday. He was responding to a question raised by NCP member Rahul Narvekar through a Calling Attention notice in the state Legislative Council. "A comprehensive report on equitable water distribution for Mumbai city and its suburban areas is ready. The report will be shared with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) soon and the civic body will be asked to implement it," Sagar said in the House. To another question, he said people living on forest land in Mumbai for years were not getting adequate drinking water supply, but the government will soon ensure it for them. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in 2016 announced setting up a committee to ensure equitable water distribution for the region coming under jurisdiction of the BMC. The Mumbai civic body loses around 25 to 27 per cent water due to leakages, Sagar noted. "The government is trying hard to minimise such losses so that it can cater to the growing drinking water demand," he said. Sagar said though the number of city's permanent residents is limited, its floating population (those who keep moving from place to place) puts a lot of pressure on the administration. "It is necessary to supply 270 litre of water per person in city areas, mainly due to the pressure of the floating population," the minister said

Maharashtra government to ask BMC to ensure equitable water supply: Minister

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