One of India’s largest cities, Chennai, is dealing with a crippling crisis: It has run out of water. In the middle of a particularly hot summer, the four lakes that supply the capital of the southern state of Tamil Nadu have dried up; together they contain just 1 per cent of the volume they did last year.

India’s man-made water crisis threatens more cities

The Madras High Court while urging the Tamil Nadu government to work with organisations interested in conservation of water bodies, in the wake of severe water crisis faced in several parts of the state, has told the state government not to prevent protests highlighting the water woes in the state, news agency PTI reported.

Justice N Anand Venkatesh made the observation on Friday while directing the Chennai Commissioner of Police to allow Arappor Iyakkam, an NGO, to hold a demonstration highlighting the present water crisis in Chennai and the causes for it on June 30 near Valluvarkottam in Chennai, the report added.

"The issue that is sought to be projected during the protest is a burning issue about which the people must be made aware. The government is taking all its efforts to ensure that water is supplied to the nook and corner of the city.

"However, it is important to realise as to why we have reached the present state of affairs as a result of various water bodies that were allowed to be encroached in the past and virtually destroying the eco system," the judge said.

Noting that the issue requires serious consideration, the judge said awareness must be spread all over the state and that the NGO was one of the pioneers in it.

The court also said these were issues that any government in power should never take as an affront and must make efforts to improve the situation and work along with associations that are interested in the conservation of water bodies.

Awareness is the only way through which the situation can be brought under control and therefore, protests of this nature should never be stopped, it observed.

On June 20, the Commissioner of Police had rejected the NGO's application seeking permission for the protest on the grounds that another organisation had sought permission on the very same day and that it would result inlaw and order problem.

Aggrieved, the petitioner approached the high court.

Several parts of Tamil Nadu, especially the state capital, have been reeling under severe water shortage since last month owing to poor storage in various reservoirs following deficit rainfall.&nbsp;

The Madras High Court while urging the Tamil Nadu government to work with organisations interested in conservation of water bodies, in the wake of severe water crisis faced in several parts of the state, has told the state government not to prevent protests highlighting the water woes in the state, news agency PTI reported.

The Madras High Court while urging the Tamil Nadu government to work with organisations interested in conservation of water bodies, in the wake of severe water crisis faced in several parts of the state, has told the state government not to prevent protests highlighting the water woes in the state, news agency PTI reported. Justice N Anand Venkatesh made the observation on Friday while directing the Chennai Commissioner of Police to allow Arappor Iyakkam, an NGO, to hold a demonstration highlighting the present water crisis in Chennai and the causes for it on June 30 near Valluvarkottam in Chennai, the report added. "The issue that is sought to be projected during the protest is a burning issue about which the people must be made aware. The government is taking all its efforts to ensure that water is supplied to the nook and corner of the city. "However, it is important to realise as to why we have reached the present state of affairs as a result of various water bodies that were allowed to be encroached in the past and virtually destroying the eco system," the judge said. Noting that the issue requires serious consideration, the judge said awareness must be spread all over the state and that the NGO was one of the pioneers in it. The court also said these were issues that any government in power should never take as an affront and must make efforts to improve the situation and work along with associations that are interested in the conservation of water bodies. Awareness is the only way through which the situation can be brought under control and therefore, protests of this nature should never be stopped, it observed. On June 20, the Commissioner of Police had rejected the NGO's application seeking permission for the protest on the grounds that another organisation had sought permission on the very same day and that it would result inlaw and order problem. Aggrieved, the petitioner approached the high court. Several parts of Tamil Nadu, especially the state capital, have been reeling under severe water shortage since last month owing to poor storage in various reservoirs following deficit rainfall.

Tamil Nadu government told not to prevent protests over water crisis

Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth Saturday said Rain-water harvesting (RWH) should be taken up on a war-footing to address the acute water crisis in the state.

The 69-year-old actor was speaking to reporters here on his arrival from Mumbai, where he was shooting for his film 'Durbar.'

"As of now, immediate measures that need to be taken is saving rain-water. It should be on a war-footing mode. Then all water bodies, including lakes and ponds need to be distilled ahead of the monsoon season", he said to a query on the water crisis prevailing in Tamil Nadu.

The city is facing a severe crisis with all four major reservoirs supplying water going bone dry, forcing residents to look for alternatives to tide over the crisis.

Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio had recently expressed concern over the acute water crisis in Tamil Nadu.

The 44-year-old actor, one of the most vocal environmentalists in Hollywood, had shared a post by news outlet BBC on Instagram with the title, "Only rain can save Chennai from this situation".

Rajinikanth replied in the affirmative when asked whether he was upset at not being able to cast his vote in the recently held South Indian Artists Association election.

"Yes (I am upset). Because I did not receive the postal votes on time", Rajinikanth said.

The bi-annual South Indian Artists Association was held on June 23 as per the orders of the Madras High Court. Nearly 1,604 actors and actresses, including top actors Kamal Hassan and Vijay, cast their votes.

However, Rajinikanth missed out as he was in Mumbai for shooting for his upcoming flick 'Durbar'.

He had expressed his regret at not being able to vote in a tweet, saying that he had received the postal votes for the election only at 6.45 pm on June 22 despite his efforts to get it earlier.&nbsp;

Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth Saturday said Rain-water harvesting (RWH) should be taken up on a war-footing to address the acute water crisis in the state. The 69-year-old actor was speaking to reporters here on his arrival from Mumbai, where he was shooting for his film 'Durbar.

Tamil film superstar Rajinikanth Saturday said Rain-water harvesting (RWH) should be taken up on a war-footing to address the acute water crisis in the state. The 69-year-old actor was speaking to reporters here on his arrival from Mumbai, where he was shooting for his film 'Durbar.' "As of now, immediate measures that need to be taken is saving rain-water. It should be on a war-footing mode. Then all water bodies, including lakes and ponds need to be distilled ahead of the monsoon season", he said to a query on the water crisis prevailing in Tamil Nadu. The city is facing a severe crisis with all four major reservoirs supplying water going bone dry, forcing residents to look for alternatives to tide over the crisis. Hollywood star Leonardo DiCaprio had recently expressed concern over the acute water crisis in Tamil Nadu. The 44-year-old actor, one of the most vocal environmentalists in Hollywood, had shared a post by news outlet BBC on Instagram with the title, "Only rain can save Chennai from this situation". Rajinikanth replied in the affirmative when asked whether he was upset at not being able to cast his vote in the recently held South Indian Artists Association election. "Yes (I am upset). Because I did not receive the postal votes on time", Rajinikanth said. The bi-annual South Indian Artists Association was held on June 23 as per the orders of the Madras High Court. Nearly 1,604 actors and actresses, including top actors Kamal Hassan and Vijay, cast their votes. However, Rajinikanth missed out as he was in Mumbai for shooting for his upcoming flick 'Durbar'. He had expressed his regret at not being able to vote in a tweet, saying that he had received the postal votes for the election only at 6.45 pm on June 22 despite his efforts to get it earlier.

Rainwater harvesting should be taken up on war footing: Rajinikanth

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly echoed his desire of making India a great power and according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the recognition by most Indians that the country’s global stature has ‘risen’ in the last five years, played a role in the NDA government retaining power for a second consecutive term.&nbsp;

“A large majority of people in India recognised that India’s stature in the world has risen in the last five years,” the minister said, adding that the government has kept alive and perhaps even strengthened expectations of change in India. A “global rebalancing” is taking place and its “sharpest manifestation” is the rise of China and, to an extent, the rise of India as well, Jaishankar said during an interaction at a seminar.

In 2015, Modi proclaimed that “the world needs to realise the greatness of India”. In 2014, he promised an “India first” policy that will see “a confident and sure India, engaging with the global community on its own terms and principles” and countering threats to India’s security from a position of strength.&nbsp;

Over the past decade-and-a-half, the buzzword for the ‘strategic’ community in India is the aspirational objective of seeing their country being projected as a major global power. They take umbrage at India’s description as a ‘regional’ power.

Many believe that India’s economic power, military strength and her important geostrategic location are factors that should announce its arrival in the world.&nbsp;

But not all are convinced. Leading strategist Bharat Karnad in his book Why India Is Not A Great Power? (Yet), says that India lacks ‘a driving vision’, a sense of ‘national destiny’, defining of ‘national interests’, and ‘willingness to use coercion and force in support of national interests’ along with ‘imaginative’ use of both hard and soft power, to be on par with great powers.

It is true that Modi has a rapport with world leaders. Conjuring up new slogans and initiatives (‘Make in India’, ‘Act East Policy’ or ‘Neighbourhood First’), he has presented himself as a hyper-active transformative leader who will make India great again.&nbsp;

To stave off the impression that India has not tamely capitulated to US pressure against old allies Iran or Russia, New Delhi must weigh its decision to reduce Iranian oil imports against its underlying concerns in the shape of the Chabahar project that provides India with key connectivity, or its decision to go ahead with the proposed deal of purchasing Russian S-400 anti-missile systems against a bilateral Indo-US trade of about $150 billion.&nbsp;

India should back a multi-polar world and balance its equation with the United States, while deepening military, political, and cultural relations with rising global powers such as Russia and China.&nbsp;

Besides looking at the US in-the-eye regarding Iran, the main initiative China has taken is to strike deals with oil and gas-rich countries such as Russia, Sudan and Venezuela to secure supplies of strategic energy resources.&nbsp;

In the “great power” trope, India must be upfront in accepting that it still has appalling poverty, caste and religious animosities. It is yet to attain economic clout on par with China or to develop a military-industrial complex of its own.&nbsp;

Silent but firm action should be the best propaganda. What could be the starting point? Here is a suggestion. Take out a well-thought-out population control policy. We’re a hopelessly populated country. More population means more jobs to create, more mouths to feed, more forests to remove, in short more resources to cater to them.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi’s pet new project “Piped Water for All by 2024” comes in the context of &nbsp;NITI Aayog’s warning that 21 Indian cities will run out of groundwater by 2020 and that 70 per cent of water bodies in India are contaminated.&nbsp;

According to a 2005 World Bank report, India will face a severe water crisis in 20 years if the government doesn’t change its ways. By 2020, the report says, India’s demand for water will exceed all sources of supply. It takes India to task for lacking a proper water management system, while its groundwater is disappearing and river bodies are turning into makeshift sewers. India has the world’s largest number of people without access to clean water.&nbsp;

Fanning out a “great power” vapour may wait till we deserve it by resolving issues that are more pressing to us.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-aspiring-for-world-power-status-the-bumpy-road-ahead-2765691">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly echoed his desire of making India a great power and according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the recognition by most Indians that the country’s global stature has ‘risen’ in the last five years, played a role in the NDA government retaining power for a second consecutive term.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has repeatedly echoed his desire of making India a great power and according to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the recognition by most Indians that the country’s global stature has ‘risen’ in the last five years, played a role in the NDA government retaining power for a second consecutive term. “A large majority of people in India recognised that India’s stature in the world has risen in the last five years,” the minister said, adding that the government has kept alive and perhaps even strengthened expectations of change in India. A “global rebalancing” is taking place and its “sharpest manifestation” is the rise of China and, to an extent, the rise of India as well, Jaishankar said during an interaction at a seminar. In 2015, Modi proclaimed that “the world needs to realise the greatness of India”. In 2014, he promised an “India first” policy that will see “a confident and sure India, engaging with the global community on its own terms and principles” and countering threats to India’s security from a position of strength. Over the past decade-and-a-half, the buzzword for the ‘strategic’ community in India is the aspirational objective of seeing their country being projected as a major global power. They take umbrage at India’s description as a ‘regional’ power. Many believe that India’s economic power, military strength and her important geostrategic location are factors that should announce its arrival in the world. But not all are convinced. Leading strategist Bharat Karnad in his book Why India Is Not A Great Power? (Yet), says that India lacks ‘a driving vision’, a sense of ‘national destiny’, defining of ‘national interests’, and ‘willingness to use coercion and force in support of national interests’ along with ‘imaginative’ use of both hard and soft power, to be on par with great powers. It is true that Modi has a rapport with world leaders. Conjuring up new slogans and initiatives (‘Make in India’, ‘Act East Policy’ or ‘Neighbourhood First’), he has presented himself as a hyper-active transformative leader who will make India great again. To stave off the impression that India has not tamely capitulated to US pressure against old allies Iran or Russia, New Delhi must weigh its decision to reduce Iranian oil imports against its underlying concerns in the shape of the Chabahar project that provides India with key connectivity, or its decision to go ahead with the proposed deal of purchasing Russian S-400 anti-missile systems against a bilateral Indo-US trade of about $150 billion. India should back a multi-polar world and balance its equation with the United States, while deepening military, political, and cultural relations with rising global powers such as Russia and China. Besides looking at the US in-the-eye regarding Iran, the main initiative China has taken is to strike deals with oil and gas-rich countries such as Russia, Sudan and Venezuela to secure supplies of strategic energy resources. In the “great power” trope, India must be upfront in accepting that it still has appalling poverty, caste and religious animosities. It is yet to attain economic clout on par with China or to develop a military-industrial complex of its own. Silent but firm action should be the best propaganda. What could be the starting point? Here is a suggestion. Take out a well-thought-out population control policy. We’re a hopelessly populated country. More population means more jobs to create, more mouths to feed, more forests to remove, in short more resources to cater to them. Prime Minister Modi’s pet new project “Piped Water for All by 2024” comes in the context of NITI Aayog’s warning that 21 Indian cities will run out of groundwater by 2020 and that 70 per cent of water bodies in India are contaminated. According to a 2005 World Bank report, India will face a severe water crisis in 20 years if the government doesn’t change its ways. By 2020, the report says, India’s demand for water will exceed all sources of supply. It takes India to task for lacking a proper water management system, while its groundwater is disappearing and river bodies are turning into makeshift sewers. India has the world’s largest number of people without access to clean water. Fanning out a “great power” vapour may wait till we deserve it by resolving issues that are more pressing to us. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Aspiring for world power status: The bumpy road ahead

Workers of a regional party took in India's southern Tamil Nadu state to the streets on Monday (June 24) to protest the water crisis prevailing in the parched province.

Protest, prayers in Indian state over water crisis

India Watch, 21st June 2019

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

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami on Friday said the government is taking steps to provide water through desalination plants, groundwater and what’s available in the quarries. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Water crisis intensifies in Chennai

The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu, which is facing a water crisis, but the latter has declined it, saying there was "no need for the help at present."

"Since the major water bodies of Chennai has been facing acute water shortage, the Kerala government decided to extend a helping hand," a release issued from the Kerala Chief Minister's office said.

Though chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan's office contacted the Tamil Nadu CMO on the offer, the neighbouring state informed that "at present, there is no need for the help, it said.

Kerala was prepared to transport 20 lakh litres of drinking water from Thiruvananthapuram to Chennai through train, the release added.

Tamil Nadu Municipal Administration minister S P Velumani told reporters in Coimbatore in that deficiency in some groundwater conservation projects were identified at various places, including Chennai, and were being attended to.

He said Tamil Nadu was facing the worst-ever drought. Rains were expected in a few days, he said.

As far as Chennai was concerned, he said there was depletion of groundwater as the city had witnessed rains 190 days ago.

Water was being supplied through lorries and borewells are being dug wherever the water problem prevails, he added.

The Tamil Nadu government has said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet requirements till the onset of the northeast monsoon in October.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami has said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media.

The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu, which is facing a water crisis, but the latter has declined it, saying there was "no need for the help at present.

The Kerala government Thursday expressed willingness to provide 20 lakh litres drinking water to Tamil Nadu, which is facing a water crisis, but the latter has declined it, saying there was "no need for the help at present." "Since the major water bodies of Chennai has been facing acute water shortage, the Kerala government decided to extend a helping hand," a release issued from the Kerala Chief Minister's office said. Though chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan's office contacted the Tamil Nadu CMO on the offer, the neighbouring state informed that "at present, there is no need for the help, it said. Kerala was prepared to transport 20 lakh litres of drinking water from Thiruvananthapuram to Chennai through train, the release added. Tamil Nadu Municipal Administration minister S P Velumani told reporters in Coimbatore in that deficiency in some groundwater conservation projects were identified at various places, including Chennai, and were being attended to. He said Tamil Nadu was facing the worst-ever drought. Rains were expected in a few days, he said. As far as Chennai was concerned, he said there was depletion of groundwater as the city had witnessed rains 190 days ago. Water was being supplied through lorries and borewells are being dug wherever the water problem prevails, he added. The Tamil Nadu government has said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet requirements till the onset of the northeast monsoon in October. Chief Minister K Palaniswami has said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media.

Tamil Nadu rejects Kerala's offer of 20 lakh litres drinking water

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

Water emergency in Parts of India and Reservoirs run dry across the country.

India Watch: Severe Water Crisis in India

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party workers held protests outside the Coimbatore City Corporation Office (CCCO) here against the acute water crisis in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday.

The protestors have taken this step in order to urge the CCCO to take steps to resolve this crisis affecting the state.

On this matter, the Tamil Nadu minister D Jayakumar said, "Water management is a crucial subject. We are doing all that we can despite the deficient rain. We have over 400 water tanks distributing water in the state."

The former speaker of the Tamil Nadu legislative understands the seriousness of the issue and believes that they are doing what they can to provide water to people who are lacking it.

The protestors waved DMK flags and held bright plastic pots over their heads to make a vivid display of the protest against the water crisis.

The protests took place in the wake of the scarce water supply in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.

This water crisis seems to be a pressing issue in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu as well. Karnataka too is suffering from acute water crises caused by drought in the state.&nbsp;

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party workers held protests outside the Coimbatore City Corporation Office (CCCO) here against the acute water crisis in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday.

The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) party workers held protests outside the Coimbatore City Corporation Office (CCCO) here against the acute water crisis in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday. The protestors have taken this step in order to urge the CCCO to take steps to resolve this crisis affecting the state. On this matter, the Tamil Nadu minister D Jayakumar said, "Water management is a crucial subject. We are doing all that we can despite the deficient rain. We have over 400 water tanks distributing water in the state." The former speaker of the Tamil Nadu legislative understands the seriousness of the issue and believes that they are doing what they can to provide water to people who are lacking it. The protestors waved DMK flags and held bright plastic pots over their heads to make a vivid display of the protest against the water crisis. The protests took place in the wake of the scarce water supply in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. This water crisis seems to be a pressing issue in the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu as well. Karnataka too is suffering from acute water crises caused by drought in the state.

Tamil Nadu: DMK workers hold protests against water crisis in Coimbatore

Amidst the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/severe-water-crisis-hits-tamil-nadu-228401">severe water crisis in parts of the state</a>, Tamil Nadu government Tuesday said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet the requirements till the onset of northeast monsoon in October.

Chief Minister K Palaniswami said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels, but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media.

Speaking to reporters in Chennai&nbsp;after reviewing the progress of work on the Jayalalithaa memorial, he urged the media not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity based on a few reports.

"The (northeast) monsoon will arrive only by October-November. Till then we have to meet the requirements only from groundwater sources," he said.

The northeast monsoon brings the bulk of rainfall for Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai, which is facing a very severe water shortage.

Krishna water from Kandaleru in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh was also not being realised in its full capacity, the Chief Minister said, responding to reporters' queries on the water situation.

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-watch-severe-water-crisis-in-india-228517/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

"All steps are being taken to supply water. The severe drought and deficient monsoon (in the previous years) has led to depletion in groundwater levels." 
"But drinking water is being supplied through tankers. People are using this water to even wash clothes," he said.

He said though lakes feeding Chennai have dried up, steps were being taken to ensure supply of drinking water, with efforts to augment it from&nbsp; 
Veeranam lake in Cuddalore district.

People should also understand the situation and cooperate, the chief minister, said and urged the media to not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity.

"The media should not create an illusion of water scarcity using some stray incidents," he said.

In one of the worst summers, taps in parts of the state, including Chennai have gone dry, affecting citizens and corporates alike.

While people queuing up with plastic pots in the city has become a common sight, IT companies are going in for various measures, including work from home to stave off the problem.

Tamil Nadu is facing its worst water crisis this year. With searing temperatures and delayed monsoon, most of the regions are facing water a terrible shortage of water.

The state is facing drought from three years because of successive failure of north east monsoons.

Amidst the ongoing severe water crisis in parts of the state, Tamil Nadu government Tuesday said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet the requirements till the onset of northeast monsoon in October.

Amidst the ongoing severe water crisis in parts of the state, Tamil Nadu government Tuesday said it was largely dependent on groundwater to meet the requirements till the onset of northeast monsoon in October. Chief Minister K Palaniswami said drought and deficient monsoon had resulted in depletion of groundwater levels, but claimed the issue was not as big as was being made out, especially in the media. Speaking to reporters in Chennai after reviewing the progress of work on the Jayalalithaa memorial, he urged the media not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity based on a few reports. "The (northeast) monsoon will arrive only by October-November. Till then we have to meet the requirements only from groundwater sources," he said. The northeast monsoon brings the bulk of rainfall for Tamil Nadu, especially Chennai, which is facing a very severe water shortage. Krishna water from Kandaleru in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh was also not being realised in its full capacity, the Chief Minister said, responding to reporters' queries on the water situation. "All steps are being taken to supply water. The severe drought and deficient monsoon (in the previous years) has led to depletion in groundwater levels." "But drinking water is being supplied through tankers. People are using this water to even wash clothes," he said. He said though lakes feeding Chennai have dried up, steps were being taken to ensure supply of drinking water, with efforts to augment it from Veeranam lake in Cuddalore district. People should also understand the situation and cooperate, the chief minister, said and urged the media to not to create an "illusion" of water scarcity. "The media should not create an illusion of water scarcity using some stray incidents," he said. In one of the worst summers, taps in parts of the state, including Chennai have gone dry, affecting citizens and corporates alike. While people queuing up with plastic pots in the city has become a common sight, IT companies are going in for various measures, including work from home to stave off the problem. Tamil Nadu is facing its worst water crisis this year. With searing temperatures and delayed monsoon, most of the regions are facing water a terrible shortage of water. The state is facing drought from three years because of successive failure of north east monsoons.

Tamil Nadu faces severe water crisis, chief minister K Palaniswami says not a big issue

Tamil Nadu is facing its worst water crisis this year. With searing temperatures and delayed monsoon, most of the regions are facing water a terrible shortage of water.

Wells have dried up in the southernmost tip of India that has left people looking for alternative sources of water.

The wells in the area are a source of fresh water that the residents have and if the present situation continues they will be left with no choice but to rely on pricey private water tanker facilities.

Tamil Nadu is facing drought from three years because of successive failure of north east monsoons.

The bore wells inside the Rameshwaram temple are turning dry.

At the famous Ramanathaswamy temple here, water from 19 wells is poured on the heads of the people visiting the temple as part of a ritual.

The ritual faces the threat of being stopped.

In the areas in and around the state capital, Chennai, residents are sinking borewells up to 600 feet in Ambattur, Pallavaram, Chromepet and Avadi as there is no piped water facility and private water tanker facility comes at a cost.

There is no assurance on the quality of the water bought at a high price.

People are forced to draw water from the ground illegally and over 200 motors have been seized by the Chennai Metrowater department in over a span of 15 days.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu is facing its worst water crisis this year. With searing temperatures and delayed monsoon, most of the regions are facing water a terrible shortage of water.

Tamil Nadu is facing its worst water crisis this year. With searing temperatures and delayed monsoon, most of the regions are facing water a terrible shortage of water. Wells have dried up in the southernmost tip of India that has left people looking for alternative sources of water. The wells in the area are a source of fresh water that the residents have and if the present situation continues they will be left with no choice but to rely on pricey private water tanker facilities. Tamil Nadu is facing drought from three years because of successive failure of north east monsoons. The bore wells inside the Rameshwaram temple are turning dry. At the famous Ramanathaswamy temple here, water from 19 wells is poured on the heads of the people visiting the temple as part of a ritual. The ritual faces the threat of being stopped. In the areas in and around the state capital, Chennai, residents are sinking borewells up to 600 feet in Ambattur, Pallavaram, Chromepet and Avadi as there is no piped water facility and private water tanker facility comes at a cost. There is no assurance on the quality of the water bought at a high price. People are forced to draw water from the ground illegally and over 200 motors have been seized by the Chennai Metrowater department in over a span of 15 days.

Severe water crisis hits Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu is reeling under acute water crisis for the past several months after Chennai's Porur Lake, which is considered one of the main sources of water, has reached its lowest level. Moreover, with the mercury soaring in the region, there seems to be no respite for perturbed locals here.

In Chennai, locals installed hand-pumps near Marina Beach to extract groundwater to manage their daily needs. However, the water, residents say, is of a compromised quality owing to pollutants, thereby forcing them to buy packaged water from shops for consumption.

Speaking to ANI, a local said, "We have to stand in a queue for hours under this scorching heat to fetch some water as borewells in the area have gone dry. This is for the third time in a row that Chennai is facing a severe water crisis."

"Most of the time, the water we get from these hand pumps can't be used for drinking as it stinks. For drinking and cooking, we have to buy water from the shops," she added.

Earlier this week, DMK leaders had slammed the AIADMK government in the state for its inability to solve the impending water crisis in the state.

While responding to the criticism, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had said that the government is looking into the issue and required arrangements will be made.

Tamil Nadu is reeling under acute water crisis for the past several months after Chennai's Porur Lake, which is considered one of the main sources of water, has reached its lowest level.

Tamil Nadu is reeling under acute water crisis for the past several months after Chennai's Porur Lake, which is considered one of the main sources of water, has reached its lowest level. Moreover, with the mercury soaring in the region, there seems to be no respite for perturbed locals here. In Chennai, locals installed hand-pumps near Marina Beach to extract groundwater to manage their daily needs. However, the water, residents say, is of a compromised quality owing to pollutants, thereby forcing them to buy packaged water from shops for consumption. Speaking to ANI, a local said, "We have to stand in a queue for hours under this scorching heat to fetch some water as borewells in the area have gone dry. This is for the third time in a row that Chennai is facing a severe water crisis." "Most of the time, the water we get from these hand pumps can't be used for drinking as it stinks. For drinking and cooking, we have to buy water from the shops," she added. Earlier this week, DMK leaders had slammed the AIADMK government in the state for its inability to solve the impending water crisis in the state. While responding to the criticism, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami had said that the government is looking into the issue and required arrangements will be made.

Water crisis deepens in Tamil Nadu, soaring temperature adds to woes

5th meet of NITI Aayog's governing council in New Delhi. Water crisis and farmer issues to be top agenda of this meeting. Bihar and Andhra expected to raise special status demand. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi chairs 5th NITI Aayog meeting

Severe Parts in India are facing water crisis. Jal Shakti Minister said that Water crisis is a 'Media Hype'. 50% Villages in India face drought like conditions. Watch this video to know more.

India Watch: Severe Water Crisis In India

People residing in Semkhor village of Assam are facing acute water crisis even after 70 years of independence.

To meet their needs, the residents of this village collect water that drips from the mountains in pits.

Crying foul, the locals here told ANI, that governments kept on changing but none helped them in combating the crisis.

Sopesh Pathari, a resident of Semkhor village, narrating his ordeal said, "We drink water which comes out of mountains. We do not have arrangements like tubewell or anything by the government. People residing in the area are drinking water like this."

Their sufferings do not end here; the locals have to travel over a kilometre to fetch water every day.

"We have a big water problem. We have requested the government department but they did not do anything. We travel one kilometre to get clean water," another resident Khurabi told ANI.

The locals further underscored that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has constructed toilets but not provided water in them."It is very difficult to search for water. We do not even get water to bath," a woman here said.

As per Census 2011, the availability of drinking water in households in Assam within the premises is 55%, near the household premises is 27%, and away from the household premises is 19%.

Census 2011 defines the concept of 'within the premises'&nbsp;as the area of the household, and 'near the premises'&nbsp;in an urban scenario as 100m from the premises and 500m from the premises in a rural scenario. 'Away', in the urban scenario, is defined as beyond 100m from the household premises and in a rural area as beyond 500m.

People residing in Semkhor village of Assam are facing acute water crisis even after 70 years of independence. To meet their needs, the residents of this village collect water that drips from the mountains in pits.

People residing in Semkhor village of Assam are facing acute water crisis even after 70 years of independence. To meet their needs, the residents of this village collect water that drips from the mountains in pits. Crying foul, the locals here told ANI, that governments kept on changing but none helped them in combating the crisis. Sopesh Pathari, a resident of Semkhor village, narrating his ordeal said, "We drink water which comes out of mountains. We do not have arrangements like tubewell or anything by the government. People residing in the area are drinking water like this." Their sufferings do not end here; the locals have to travel over a kilometre to fetch water every day. "We have a big water problem. We have requested the government department but they did not do anything. We travel one kilometre to get clean water," another resident Khurabi told ANI. The locals further underscored that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government has constructed toilets but not provided water in them."It is very difficult to search for water. We do not even get water to bath," a woman here said. As per Census 2011, the availability of drinking water in households in Assam within the premises is 55%, near the household premises is 27%, and away from the household premises is 19%. Census 2011 defines the concept of 'within the premises' as the area of the household, and 'near the premises' in an urban scenario as 100m from the premises and 500m from the premises in a rural scenario. 'Away', in the urban scenario, is defined as beyond 100m from the household premises and in a rural area as beyond 500m.

A battle for survival: To quench thirst, residents of this Assam village collect water dripping from mountains

Water is now gold for desperate Venezuelans

Venezuela: As leaders battle, people struggle for water & electricity

Standing in his garden in Kabul, Baz Mohammad Kochi oversees the drilling of a new well more than 100 metres deep after his first water reservoir dried up. He is not alone.

A shortage of rain and snow, a booming population and wasteful consumption have drained the Afghan capital's water basin and sparked a race to the bottom as households and businesses bore deeper and deeper wells in search of the precious resource.

"The water level has dropped so much that it is now necessary to reach other underground basins 100 metres, even 120 metres" deep, says well digger Mohammad Aman as his dilapidated machine pierces the ochre earth in Kochi's yard.&nbsp;

Every year 80 million cubic metres (2.8 billion cubic feet) of water are extracted from Kabul's aquifers -- nearly double the natural recharge rate through precipitation, according to utility Afghanistan Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Corporation.

As a result, Kabul's water table has fallen at least 30 metres (100 feet) in recent years, says Asian Development Bank deputy country director Shanny Campbell.

Snow has fallen in the city this month but it is not nearly enough to solve the water shortage -- in some areas the level has dropped 20 metres in the past year.

"The problem we have in Kabul is the massive increase in population, impact of climate change and overall less precipitation and snowfall," Campbell explains.

Only around 20 per cent of Kabul is connected to the city's piped water system, leaving many residents to ensure their own supply by digging wells that are often shared by several neighbours.

Others buy water from private companies, or, like Mohammad Nazir, fill up jerry cans at mosques or more than 400 public taps scattered around the city.

&nbsp;"There is no point turning on the taps -- there is no water here," says Nazir, 50, who lives on a hill where the ground is too hard to dig a well and the city's pipes do not reach.

"It's the worst year we've ever lived."&nbsp;

Undrinkable

Water is not only scarce in Kabul, but most of it is undrinkable, according to the National Environmental Protection Agency.&nbsp;

Around 70 per cent of the city's groundwater is contaminated by waste and chemicals from leaky household septic tanks and industrial plants that can cause diarrhoea or other illnesses if the water is not boiled or purified properly.

Efforts to increase connections to the municipal piped water network and improve sanitation systems are underway.&nbsp;

But progress is slow as authorities struggle to keep up with demand in one of the fastest growing cities in the world.&nbsp;

Kabul's population has more than doubled to around five million in the past 30 years, boosted by the arrival of people fleeing war and poverty.&nbsp;

It is expected to reach eight million by 2050, according to a report published in the Washington-based SAIS Review of International Affairs in 2017.&nbsp;

Improving living standards for many households also means more people are showering and washing cars than ever before.

A lack of public awareness about water conservation and no restrictions on its usage means much of it is wasted.&nbsp;

While they try to work out how to replenish the city's subterranean reserves, authorities are using a television campaign and the influence of religious leaders to encourage households to save water.

"In our Friday sermons, we call on the faithful not to waste water," said Abdul Raouf, a member of the Ulema Council, the country's highest religious body.&nbsp;

As they wait for the first winter snow in the city, worshippers also pray "for this drought to end as soon as possible".

Even the Taliban are on board, issuing a statement to followers to "pray for rain".&nbsp;

Quick fix&nbsp;

Authorities are not waiting for divine intervention to fix Kabul's water problem.

With droughts, like the one affecting swathes of Afghanistan this year, expected to increase in severity and frequency as a result of climate change, a long-term solution is needed.&nbsp;

Among the options being explored by the ADB are "spreading basins" -- large ponds that trap rainwater long enough for it to seep into the soil and recharge aquifers.&nbsp;

The ADB is also looking at using "pumps to inject the water directly into" the basins and the construction of a dam on the outskirts of Kabul.

"The answer is not in one technology but in a mixture," Campbell said.&nbsp;

"Kabul is under a situation of water stress so we're looking for a solution with lower impact, lower cost technology that could fix the problem quickly."&nbsp;

That would be welcome news to Kochi, who cannot hide his relief as water gushes out his new well. He knows the borehole could dry up again soon.

"We have survived revolution and civil wars, the Taliban regime and suicide attacks, but this water shortage may force us to leave," Kochi says.

"There is no life without water."&nbsp;

Standing in his garden in Kabul, Baz Mohammad Kochi oversees the drilling of a new well more than 100 metres deep after his first water reservoir dried up. He is not alone.

Standing in his garden in Kabul, Baz Mohammad Kochi oversees the drilling of a new well more than 100 metres deep after his first water reservoir dried up. He is not alone. A shortage of rain and snow, a booming population and wasteful consumption have drained the Afghan capital's water basin and sparked a race to the bottom as households and businesses bore deeper and deeper wells in search of the precious resource. "The water level has dropped so much that it is now necessary to reach other underground basins 100 metres, even 120 metres" deep, says well digger Mohammad Aman as his dilapidated machine pierces the ochre earth in Kochi's yard. Every year 80 million cubic metres (2.8 billion cubic feet) of water are extracted from Kabul's aquifers -- nearly double the natural recharge rate through precipitation, according to utility Afghanistan Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Corporation. As a result, Kabul's water table has fallen at least 30 metres (100 feet) in recent years, says Asian Development Bank deputy country director Shanny Campbell. Snow has fallen in the city this month but it is not nearly enough to solve the water shortage -- in some areas the level has dropped 20 metres in the past year. "The problem we have in Kabul is the massive increase in population, impact of climate change and overall less precipitation and snowfall," Campbell explains. Only around 20 per cent of Kabul is connected to the city's piped water system, leaving many residents to ensure their own supply by digging wells that are often shared by several neighbours. Others buy water from private companies, or, like Mohammad Nazir, fill up jerry cans at mosques or more than 400 public taps scattered around the city. "There is no point turning on the taps -- there is no water here," says Nazir, 50, who lives on a hill where the ground is too hard to dig a well and the city's pipes do not reach. "It's the worst year we've ever lived." Undrinkable Water is not only scarce in Kabul, but most of it is undrinkable, according to the National Environmental Protection Agency. Around 70 per cent of the city's groundwater is contaminated by waste and chemicals from leaky household septic tanks and industrial plants that can cause diarrhoea or other illnesses if the water is not boiled or purified properly. Efforts to increase connections to the municipal piped water network and improve sanitation systems are underway. But progress is slow as authorities struggle to keep up with demand in one of the fastest growing cities in the world. Kabul's population has more than doubled to around five million in the past 30 years, boosted by the arrival of people fleeing war and poverty. It is expected to reach eight million by 2050, according to a report published in the Washington-based SAIS Review of International Affairs in 2017. Improving living standards for many households also means more people are showering and washing cars than ever before. A lack of public awareness about water conservation and no restrictions on its usage means much of it is wasted. While they try to work out how to replenish the city's subterranean reserves, authorities are using a television campaign and the influence of religious leaders to encourage households to save water. "In our Friday sermons, we call on the faithful not to waste water," said Abdul Raouf, a member of the Ulema Council, the country's highest religious body. As they wait for the first winter snow in the city, worshippers also pray "for this drought to end as soon as possible". Even the Taliban are on board, issuing a statement to followers to "pray for rain". Quick fix Authorities are not waiting for divine intervention to fix Kabul's water problem. With droughts, like the one affecting swathes of Afghanistan this year, expected to increase in severity and frequency as a result of climate change, a long-term solution is needed. Among the options being explored by the ADB are "spreading basins" -- large ponds that trap rainwater long enough for it to seep into the soil and recharge aquifers. The ADB is also looking at using "pumps to inject the water directly into" the basins and the construction of a dam on the outskirts of Kabul. "The answer is not in one technology but in a mixture," Campbell said. "Kabul is under a situation of water stress so we're looking for a solution with lower impact, lower cost technology that could fix the problem quickly." That would be welcome news to Kochi, who cannot hide his relief as water gushes out his new well. He knows the borehole could dry up again soon. "We have survived revolution and civil wars, the Taliban regime and suicide attacks, but this water shortage may force us to leave," Kochi says. "There is no life without water."

Kabul faces water crisis as drought, population strain supply

Suffering from acute water crisis, Shimla city has run out of the water as it remains without water for over a week now.

Following the water crisis, local residents are posting keep-off-Shimla messages on social media urging tourists to choose another destination for their summer holidays.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Tuesday also ordered to halt construction activities in order to curb the water use in Shimla.

The order also banned car washing for a week.

May-June months are the peak time of Shimla in which it experiences the highest number of tourists from neighbouring areas. According to reports, the population of Shimla Municipal Corporation area is about 1.72 lakh but it increases by 90,000 to one lakh more tourists during the peak season.

The parched Queen of HIills, Shimla has fallen short to less than 50% of the required amount of drinking water due to the dry winter. The requirement of water reportedly increases to 45 million litres a day during the peak season.

Recently, state chief Jai Ram Thakur Pradesh admitted that there is a shortage of water in some areas of the state while assuring that the government is taking steps to provide relief to the people.

So far the water in each zone was being supplied by the government water tanks but that too is happening after a gap of several days.&nbsp;

The court also issued a strict order to not send water tankers to the individual, particularly if they live in VIP areas including judges, ministers, bureaucrats, police officers etc.

However, that court has exempted&nbsp;the governor and the chief minister from the order.

The water crisis in the city has forced people to buy water from private suppliers or wait in a long queue to get a bucket of water.

Hotels are also affected by the crisis as many bookings have been cancelled in the last 2-3 days.

The water scarcity has not only caused serious problems in the government and private hospitals. The hostels of local educational institutions and schools are still without water, though they were supplied water through tankers.

The people are also agitated by the crisis and stages a sit-in protest outside the waterworks office on the Mall road.

They also marched towards Chief Minister's residence but police managed to stop them.

The water crisis is not a new phenomenon in India. Many parts of India experience water shortage. The crisis further deepens in months of May and June as they are the country's hottest months, though parts of the country's north, south and west have already registered temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius.

(With inputs from news agencies)

Following the water crisis, local residents are posting keep-off-Shimla messages on social media urging tourists to choose another destination for their summer holidays.

Suffering from acute water crisis, Shimla city has run out of the water as it remains without water for over a week now. Following the water crisis, local residents are posting keep-off-Shimla messages on social media urging tourists to choose another destination for their summer holidays. The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Tuesday also ordered to halt construction activities in order to curb the water use in Shimla. The order also banned car washing for a week. May-June months are the peak time of Shimla in which it experiences the highest number of tourists from neighbouring areas. According to reports, the population of Shimla Municipal Corporation area is about 1.72 lakh but it increases by 90,000 to one lakh more tourists during the peak season. The parched Queen of HIills, Shimla has fallen short to less than 50% of the required amount of drinking water due to the dry winter. The requirement of water reportedly increases to 45 million litres a day during the peak season. Recently, state chief Jai Ram Thakur Pradesh admitted that there is a shortage of water in some areas of the state while assuring that the government is taking steps to provide relief to the people. So far the water in each zone was being supplied by the government water tanks but that too is happening after a gap of several days. The court also issued a strict order to not send water tankers to the individual, particularly if they live in VIP areas including judges, ministers, bureaucrats, police officers etc. However, that court has exempted the governor and the chief minister from the order. The water crisis in the city has forced people to buy water from private suppliers or wait in a long queue to get a bucket of water. Hotels are also affected by the crisis as many bookings have been cancelled in the last 2-3 days. The water scarcity has not only caused serious problems in the government and private hospitals. The hostels of local educational institutions and schools are still without water, though they were supplied water through tankers. The people are also agitated by the crisis and stages a sit-in protest outside the waterworks office on the Mall road. They also marched towards Chief Minister's residence but police managed to stop them. The water crisis is not a new phenomenon in India. Many parts of India experience water shortage. The crisis further deepens in months of May and June as they are the country's hottest months, though parts of the country's north, south and west have already registered temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius. (With inputs from news agencies)

Taps run dry for 8th day in Shimla; tourists asked not to visit

The Bombay High Court today restrained the Maharashtra Cricket Association from drawing water from the Pavana river to maintain the Pune cricket stadium and held that the state government's decision permitting the association to do so was "illegal".

The MCA, for six years, has been drawing water from the Pavana river after signing an agreement with the state government. The water was used to maintain the pitch and ground of the stadium. 
As per the agreement between the state government and the MCA, the water was to be used for industrial purposes.

A division bench of Justices A S Oka and Riyaz Chagla today said that the state government was not entitled to grant permission to the MCA for industrial purposes.

"We are shocked to note that for a period of six years, the state government has allowed the MCA to draw water from the Pavana river for industrial purposes when admittedly the MCA is not running any industry. The water is being used for the stadium," the court said in its order.

"The government's action violates the principles of equitable distribution. The government is a trustee of water available in rivers," it said.

The bench was hearing a public interest litigation filed by an NGO, 'Loksatta Movement', in 2016 raising concerns over water usage for ground management during the IPL when the state was reeling in drought.

The state government's action is contrary to its water policy which is divided into five categories on the basis of priority, the court said. 
As per the government's water policy, supply of water for drinking and agricultural purposes falls in the first category, supply of water for recreation purposes falls under the second last category and the supply of water for events such as 'Shahi Snan' and others fall in the last category.

The court, in its order, noted that cricket matches, including the IPL tournament, would fall in the category of recreation.

The court accepted the statement of the Mumbai Cricket Association, which manages the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai, that it would not be seeking any additional water supply from the BMC for ground maintenance during the IPL matches this year.

It also accepted the affidavit filed by the BMC stating that there will not be any additional water supply to the Wankhede stadium for the IPL tournament.

The Bombay High Court today restrained the Maharashtra Cricket Association from drawing water from the Pavana river to maintain the Pune cricket stadium and held that the state government's decision permitting the association to do so was "illegal"

The Bombay High Court today restrained the Maharashtra Cricket Association from drawing water from the Pavana river to maintain the Pune cricket stadium and held that the state government's decision permitting the association to do so was "illegal". The MCA, for six years, has been drawing water from the Pavana river after signing an agreement with the state government. The water was used to maintain the pitch and ground of the stadium. As per the agreement between the state government and the MCA, the water was to be used for industrial purposes. A division bench of Justices A S Oka and Riyaz Chagla today said that the state government was not entitled to grant permission to the MCA for industrial purposes. "We are shocked to note that for a period of six years, the state government has allowed the MCA to draw water from the Pavana river for industrial purposes when admittedly the MCA is not running any industry. The water is being used for the stadium," the court said in its order. "The government's action violates the principles of equitable distribution. The government is a trustee of water available in rivers," it said. The bench was hearing a public interest litigation filed by an NGO, 'Loksatta Movement', in 2016 raising concerns over water usage for ground management during the IPL when the state was reeling in drought. The state government's action is contrary to its water policy which is divided into five categories on the basis of priority, the court said. As per the government's water policy, supply of water for drinking and agricultural purposes falls in the first category, supply of water for recreation purposes falls under the second last category and the supply of water for events such as 'Shahi Snan' and others fall in the last category. The court, in its order, noted that cricket matches, including the IPL tournament, would fall in the category of recreation. The court accepted the statement of the Mumbai Cricket Association, which manages the Wankhede stadium in Mumbai, that it would not be seeking any additional water supply from the BMC for ground maintenance during the IPL matches this year. It also accepted the affidavit filed by the BMC stating that there will not be any additional water supply to the Wankhede stadium for the IPL tournament.

Water for Pune stadium under industrial category illegal: HC

Under acute drinking water crisis, a village in Madhya Pradesh's Tikamgarh town has been deprived of water for the past three long years.

Villagers travel for almost five km every day to fetch water for their daily needs. With a population of 3,000, most people in this village are either farm labourers or petty traders.

The schemes launched by both the Central and the State governments have failed to reach the villagers despite many attempts and complaints.

"We have to walk till Uttar Pradesh border to get water. Our children can't go to school as all their time goes in fetching water. Due to non-availability of drinking water, womenfolk of the village walk five km every day through forest road to collect water," locals told ANI.

"The district administration too has ignored our problems for the last three years," locals added.

The village in Tikamgarh town also continues to be deprived of basic facilities such as school, all-weather road and electricity.

The village in Tikamgarh town also continues to be deprived of basic facilities such as school, all-weather road and electricity

Under acute drinking water crisis, a village in Madhya Pradesh's Tikamgarh town has been deprived of water for the past three long years. Villagers travel for almost five km every day to fetch water for their daily needs. With a population of 3,000, most people in this village are either farm labourers or petty traders. The schemes launched by both the Central and the State governments have failed to reach the villagers despite many attempts and complaints. "We have to walk till Uttar Pradesh border to get water. Our children can't go to school as all their time goes in fetching water. Due to non-availability of drinking water, womenfolk of the village walk five km every day through forest road to collect water," locals told ANI. "The district administration too has ignored our problems for the last three years," locals added. The village in Tikamgarh town also continues to be deprived of basic facilities such as school, all-weather road and electricity.

Madhya Pradesh: This village has been battling a water crisis for the past three years

A recent study points to the possibility of water taps running completely dry in India. According to a report, countries like India, Morocco, Iraq and Spain are grappling with the problem of shrinking reservoirs due to which tap water in these nations may soon dry up completely.

The study is based on a new early-warning satellite system that has studied world's 500,000 dams and shrinking reservoirs. Experts believe that shrinking reservoirs in the four countries could spark the next "day zero" water crisis.

India

Tensions have been apparent in India over the water allocations for two reservoirs connected by the Narmada river, the study noted. Last month, the Gujarat state government halted irrigation and appealed to farmers not to sow crops.

Morocco 
The starkest decline is that of Morocco's second-largest reservoir Al Massira which has shrunk by 60 per cent in three years due to recurring drought, expanding irrigation and the increasing thirst of neighbouring cities such as Casablanca.

Spain&nbsp; 
The Latin American country has suffered a severe drought that has contributed to a 60 per cent shrinking of the surface area of the Buendia dam over the last five years.

Iraq

The Mosul Dam here has seen a more protracted decline but it is also now down 60 per cent from its peak in the 1990s as a result of low rainfall and competing for demand from Turkish hydropower projects upstream on the Tigris and Euphrates.

Global water crisis, especially in these four nations, suggests that many other countries across the globe may head the South African way.&nbsp;

Cape Town in South Africa recently grabbed global headlines by launching a countdown to the day when taps would be cut off to millions of residents as a result of a three-year drought.

The study was reported by The&nbsp;Guardian.

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The study is based on a new early warning satellite system that has studied world's 500,000 dams and shrinking reservoirs

A recent study points to the possibility of water taps running completely dry in India. According to a report, countries like India, Morocco, Iraq and Spain are grappling with the problem of shrinking reservoirs due to which tap water in these nations may soon dry up completely. The study is based on a new early-warning satellite system that has studied world's 500,000 dams and shrinking reservoirs. Experts believe that shrinking reservoirs in the four countries could spark the next "day zero" water crisis. India Tensions have been apparent in India over the water allocations for two reservoirs connected by the Narmada river, the study noted. Last month, the Gujarat state government halted irrigation and appealed to farmers not to sow crops. Morocco The starkest decline is that of Morocco's second-largest reservoir Al Massira which has shrunk by 60 per cent in three years due to recurring drought, expanding irrigation and the increasing thirst of neighbouring cities such as Casablanca. Spain The Latin American country has suffered a severe drought that has contributed to a 60 per cent shrinking of the surface area of the Buendia dam over the last five years. Iraq The Mosul Dam here has seen a more protracted decline but it is also now down 60 per cent from its peak in the 1990s as a result of low rainfall and competing for demand from Turkish hydropower projects upstream on the Tigris and Euphrates. Global water crisis, especially in these four nations, suggests that many other countries across the globe may head the South African way. Cape Town in South Africa recently grabbed global headlines by launching a countdown to the day when taps would be cut off to millions of residents as a result of a three-year drought. The study was reported by The Guardian. (With inputs from PTI)

Water taps may go completely dry in India: Report

A number of protests have broken out in Iran since the beginning of the year over water, a growing political concern due to a drought which residents of parched areas and analysts say has been exacerbated by mismanagement.

The demonstrations have been relatively small, sporadic and limited to towns around the central city of Isfahan and Khuzestan province in the west. But they have highlighted an issue that played a role in earlier unrest and the authorities have cracked down, while recognising the need for change.

In early March, the turnout was light in a town near Isfahan, with dozens of farmers chanting the tongue-in-cheek slogan "Death to farmers, long live oppressors!", according to online videos. A week later the protests became more tense.

Dozens of riot police on motorcycles faced off against farmers in the same town, Varzaneh, another video showed. Smoke swirled around the protesters and the person filming said tear gas was being fired. A second person reported clashes. Police in the city of Isfahan were not immediately available to comment.

“What’s called drought is more often the mismanagement of water,” said a journalist in Varzaneh, who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject.

“And this lack of water has disrupted people's income.”

Farmers accuse local politicians of allowing water to be diverted from their areas in return for bribes.

While the nationwide protests in December and January stemmed from anger over high prices and alleged corruption, in rural areas, lack of access to water was also a major cause, analysts say.

At least 25 people were killed and, according to one parliamentarian, up to 3,700 people were arrested, the biggest challenge yet for the government of president Hassan Rouhani, who was reelected last year.

Displaced

In Syria, drought was one of the causes of anti-government protests which broke out in 2011 and led to civil war, making the Iranian drought particularly sensitive.

Approximately 97 percent of the country is experiencing drought to some degree, according to the Islamic Republic of Iran Meteorological Organization. Rights groups say it has driven many people from their homes.

“Towns and villages around Isfahan have been hit so hard by drought and water diversion that they have emptied out and people who lived there have moved,” said Hadi Ghaemi, the executive director for the Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI), a New York-based advocacy group.

“Nobody pays any attention to them. And people close to Rouhani told me the government didn’t even know such a situation existed and there were so many grievances.”

Rouhani and Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei mentioned drought as a problem that needs to be addressed in the country during their speech last week commemorating Nowruz, the Iranian new year, while condemning "lawlessness and violence".

An ad running on state TV which encourages Iranian citizens to conserve water shows a man sitting in a chair in the middle of a desert with the slogan, "Drought is closer than you think".

A United Nations report last year noted, "Water shortages are acute agricultural livelihoods no longer sufficient. With few other options, many people have left, choosing uncertain futures as migrants in search of work."

In early January, protests in the town of Qahderijan, some 10 km (6 miles) west of Isfahan, quickly turned violent as security forces opened fire on crowds, killing at least five people, according to activists. One of the dead was a farmer, CHRI said, and locals said water rights were the main grievance.

Videos posted on social media show protesters chanting outside a police station and throwing Molotov cocktails at the building, one of the most violent incidents documented during the nationwide protests.

A journalist in Qahderijan who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the issue said the attack on the police station was not the right thing to do but that water mismanagement had deprived farmers of their livelihoods.

Security

Hassan Kamran, a parliamentarian from Isfahan, publicly criticised energy minister Reza Ardakanian this month, accusing him of not properly implementing a water distribution law.

"The security and intelligence forces shouldn’t investigate our farmers. The water rights are theirs," he told a parliamentary session.

In early March, Ardakanian set up a working group comprising four ministers and two presidential deputies to deal with the crisis.

Since the January protests, Rouhani has repeatedly said the government will do what it can to address grievances. But there is no quick fix for deeply rooted environmental issues like drought, observers say.&nbsp

“These are local grievances but the solutions are with the national government,” said Tara Sepehri Far, Iran researcher for Human Rights Watch, adding that the government had limited power and widespread corruption.

Rouhani`s office was not immediately available to comment.

Iranian security forces are aware of the potential for water issues to cause instability. A senior Revolutionary Guards commander, Yahya Rahim Safavi, noted in a public speech in late February that water will play a key role for both the Islamic Republic’s national and regional security.

Environmentalists have found themselves in the firing line.

In late January, Kavous Seyed-Emami, the director of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, and six other environmentalists were arrested.

Two weeks later, authorities said Seyed-Emami had committed suicide in jail after confessing to being a spy for the United States and Israel. His family has denied the allegation.

State TV later aired a report saying Seyed-Emami and his colleagues were telling Iran`s enemies the country could no longer maintain domestic agriculture production because of a water shortage and needed to import food.

In late February, three more environmentalists were arrested and three weeks ago, Seyed-Emami’s wife was prevented from leaving Iran, according to family members.

“Public opinion has become sensitised to environmental issues,” said Saeed Leylaz, a Tehran-based economist and political analyst. “So the government may see the organizations and institutions who work on environmental issues as problematic.”&nbsp

A number of protests have broken out in Iran since the beginning of the year over water, a growing political concern due to a drought which residents of parched areas and analysts say has been exacerbated by mismanagement

A number of protests have broken out in Iran since the beginning of the year over water, a growing political concern due to a drought which residents of parched areas and analysts say has been exacerbated by mismanagement. The demonstrations have been relatively small, sporadic and limited to towns around the central city of Isfahan and Khuzestan province in the west. But they have highlighted an issue that played a role in earlier unrest and the authorities have cracked down, while recognising the need for change. In early March, the turnout was light in a town near Isfahan, with dozens of farmers chanting the tongue-in-cheek slogan "Death to farmers, long live oppressors!", according to online videos. A week later the protests became more tense. Dozens of riot police on motorcycles faced off against farmers in the same town, Varzaneh, another video showed. Smoke swirled around the protesters and the person filming said tear gas was being fired. A second person reported clashes. Police in the city of Isfahan were not immediately available to comment. “What’s called drought is more often the mismanagement of water,” said a journalist in Varzaneh, who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the subject. “And this lack of water has disrupted people's income.” Farmers accuse local politicians of allowing water to be diverted from their areas in return for bribes. While the nationwide protests in December and January stemmed from anger over high prices and alleged corruption, in rural areas, lack of access to water was also a major cause, analysts say. At least 25 people were killed and, according to one parliamentarian, up to 3,700 people were arrested, the biggest challenge yet for the government of president Hassan Rouhani, who was reelected last year. Displaced In Syria, drought was one of the causes of anti-government protests which broke out in 2011 and led to civil war, making the Iranian drought particularly sensitive. Approximately 97 percent of the country is experiencing drought to some degree, according to the Islamic Republic of Iran Meteorological Organization. Rights groups say it has driven many people from their homes. “Towns and villages around Isfahan have been hit so hard by drought and water diversion that they have emptied out and people who lived there have moved,” said Hadi Ghaemi, the executive director for the Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI), a New York-based advocacy group. “Nobody pays any attention to them. And people close to Rouhani told me the government didn’t even know such a situation existed and there were so many grievances.” Rouhani and Iran`s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei mentioned drought as a problem that needs to be addressed in the country during their speech last week commemorating Nowruz, the Iranian new year, while condemning "lawlessness and violence". An ad running on state TV which encourages Iranian citizens to conserve water shows a man sitting in a chair in the middle of a desert with the slogan, "Drought is closer than you think". A United Nations report last year noted, "Water shortages are acute agricultural livelihoods no longer sufficient. With few other options, many people have left, choosing uncertain futures as migrants in search of work." In early January, protests in the town of Qahderijan, some 10 km (6 miles) west of Isfahan, quickly turned violent as security forces opened fire on crowds, killing at least five people, according to activists. One of the dead was a farmer, CHRI said, and locals said water rights were the main grievance. Videos posted on social media show protesters chanting outside a police station and throwing Molotov cocktails at the building, one of the most violent incidents documented during the nationwide protests. A journalist in Qahderijan who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the issue said the attack on the police station was not the right thing to do but that water mismanagement had deprived farmers of their livelihoods. Security Hassan Kamran, a parliamentarian from Isfahan, publicly criticised energy minister Reza Ardakanian this month, accusing him of not properly implementing a water distribution law. "The security and intelligence forces shouldn’t investigate our farmers. The water rights are theirs," he told a parliamentary session. In early March, Ardakanian set up a working group comprising four ministers and two presidential deputies to deal with the crisis. Since the January protests, Rouhani has repeatedly said the government will do what it can to address grievances. But there is no quick fix for deeply rooted environmental issues like drought, observers say. “These are local grievances but the solutions are with the national government,” said Tara Sepehri Far, Iran researcher for Human Rights Watch, adding that the government had limited power and widespread corruption. Rouhani`s office was not immediately available to comment. Iranian security forces are aware of the potential for water issues to cause instability. A senior Revolutionary Guards commander, Yahya Rahim Safavi, noted in a public speech in late February that water will play a key role for both the Islamic Republic’s national and regional security. Environmentalists have found themselves in the firing line. In late January, Kavous Seyed-Emami, the director of the Persian Wildlife Heritage Foundation, and six other environmentalists were arrested. Two weeks later, authorities said Seyed-Emami had committed suicide in jail after confessing to being a spy for the United States and Israel. His family has denied the allegation. State TV later aired a report saying Seyed-Emami and his colleagues were telling Iran`s enemies the country could no longer maintain domestic agriculture production because of a water shortage and needed to import food. In late February, three more environmentalists were arrested and three weeks ago, Seyed-Emami’s wife was prevented from leaving Iran, according to family members. “Public opinion has become sensitised to environmental issues,” said Saeed Leylaz, a Tehran-based economist and political analyst. “So the government may see the organizations and institutions who work on environmental issues as problematic.”

Water crisis spurs protests in Iran

A recent report states Bengaluru to be one of the top cities in the world facing an imminent acute water crisis. According to a report by a CSE-assisted environment magazine, India&#39;s IT-city may face a grave water crisis similar to the one faced by Cape Town in South Africa.

&quot;The number of waterbodies in Bengaluru has reduced by 79 per cent due to unplanned urbanisation and encroachment -- while the built-up area has increased from eight per cent in 1973 to 77 per cent now,&quot; claimed Down To Earth, the magazine that Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) helps publish.

CSE estimates Bengaluru&#39;s water table to have dropped from 10-12 m to 76-91 m in the past two decades while the number of extraction wells has gone up from 5,000 to 0.45 million in 30 years.

&quot;Cape Town in South Africa is facing the prospect of all its taps running dry by June-July this year,&quot; the report claimed.

Bengaluru&#39;s population, which is estimated to be growing by 3.5 per cent annually, is likely to hit 20.3 million by 2031.

&quot;Many of the world&#39;s leading cities will see Cape Town-like water crisis in the not too distant future... 10 cities across the world are facing &#39;Day Zero&#39; (when taps are expected to run dry), and severe water shortage will hit them in the not-too-distant future unless cities innovate, diversify supply sources and use water judiciously,&quot; it said.

The report also listed out other cities that may face a similar water crisis; the list featured cities like Beijing (China), Mexico City (Mexico), Nairobi (Kenya), Karachi (Pakistan), Kabul (Afghanistan) and Istanbul (Turkey).

The report also listed out other cities that may face a similar water crisis

A recent report states Bengaluru to be one of the top cities in the world facing an imminent acute water crisis. According to a report by a CSE-assisted environment magazine, India's IT-city may face a grave water crisis similar to the one faced by Cape Town in South Africa. "The number of waterbodies in Bengaluru has reduced by 79 per cent due to unplanned urbanisation and encroachment -- while the built-up area has increased from eight per cent in 1973 to 77 per cent now," claimed Down To Earth, the magazine that Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) helps publish. CSE estimates Bengaluru's water table to have dropped from 10-12 m to 76-91 m in the past two decades while the number of extraction wells has gone up from 5,000 to 0.45 million in 30 years. "Cape Town in South Africa is facing the prospect of all its taps running dry by June-July this year," the report claimed. Bengaluru's population, which is estimated to be growing by 3.5 per cent annually, is likely to hit 20.3 million by 2031. "Many of the world's leading cities will see Cape Town-like water crisis in the not too distant future... 10 cities across the world are facing 'Day Zero' (when taps are expected to run dry), and severe water shortage will hit them in the not-too-distant future unless cities innovate, diversify supply sources and use water judiciously," it said. The report also listed out other cities that may face a similar water crisis; the list featured cities like Beijing (China), Mexico City (Mexico), Nairobi (Kenya), Karachi (Pakistan), Kabul (Afghanistan) and Istanbul (Turkey).

Bengaluru may face imminent water crisis similar to Cape Town: Report

World water day is being observed on Wednesday aiming&nbsp;to&nbsp;highlight the importance of freshwater and focusing attention on the importance of water.

This year marks the 25 years of World Water Day celebration ironically the same year in which &nbsp;Cape Town of South Africa became the world&#39;s first modern city to reach day zero.

Today, 2.1 billion people live without safe drinking water at home; affecting their health, education and livelihoods. Water scarcity has already affected every continent and according to a report by United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs around 102 billion people which is almost one-fifth of the world&#39;s population live in areas of physical water scarcity.

Another 1.6 billion people, or almost one-quarter of the world&#39;s population, face economic water shortage (where countries lack the necessary infrastructure to take water from rivers and aquifers).

Water Scarcity is right now one of the most serious problems human race is facing it is both natural and human-made phenomenon.

What people misunderstood about water scarcity&nbsp;is that there is a shortage of water on the planet but the according to a report by UN there is enough freshwater on the planet for seven billion people but as due to uneven distribution of water and&nbsp; too much being wasted, polluted or unsustainably managed&nbsp;causes the water scarcity in the world leading to cities like Cape Town to day zero.

By 2025, 1.8 billion people will be living in countries or regions with absolute water scarcity, and two-thirds of the world&#39;s population could be living under water stressed conditions.

With the existing climate change scenario, almost half the world&#39;s population will be living in areas of high water stress by 2030, including between 75 million and 250 million people in Africa. In addition, water scarcity in some arid and semi-arid places will displace between 24 million and 700 million people.

Sub-Saharan Africa has the largest number of water-stressed countries of any region. 
&nbsp;

This year marks the 25 years of World Water Day celebration ironically the same year in which Cape Town of South Africa became the world's first modern city to reach day zero

World water day is being observed on Wednesday aiming to highlight the importance of freshwater and focusing attention on the importance of water. This year marks the 25 years of World Water Day celebration ironically the same year in which Cape Town of South Africa became the world's first modern city to reach day zero. Today, 2.1 billion people live without safe drinking water at home; affecting their health, education and livelihoods. Water scarcity has already affected every continent and according to a report by United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs around 102 billion people which is almost one-fifth of the world's population live in areas of physical water scarcity. Another 1.6 billion people, or almost one-quarter of the world's population, face economic water shortage (where countries lack the necessary infrastructure to take water from rivers and aquifers). Water Scarcity is right now one of the most serious problems human race is facing it is both natural and human-made phenomenon. What people misunderstood about water scarcity is that there is a shortage of water on the planet but the according to a report by UN there is enough freshwater on the planet for seven billion people but as due to uneven distribution of water and too much being wasted, polluted or unsustainably managed causes the water scarcity in the world leading to cities like Cape Town to day zero. By 2025, 1.8 billion people will be living in countries or regions with absolute water scarcity, and two-thirds of the world's population could be living under water stressed conditions. With the existing climate change scenario, almost half the world's population will be living in areas of high water stress by 2030, including between 75 million and 250 million people in Africa. In addition, water scarcity in some arid and semi-arid places will displace between 24 million and 700 million people. Sub-Saharan Africa has the largest number of water-stressed countries of any region.

World Water Day: Heartbreaking facts about water scarcity

Every day more than 1,000 water tankers rumble past Nagraj&#39;s small plywood store in Bangalore, throwing up clouds of dust as they rush their valuable cargo to homes and offices in India&#39;s drought-stricken tech hub.

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Gleaming new apartment blocks are still springing up all over the city is known as India&#39;s Silicon Valley -- even though there is nowhere near enough mains water to supply those already living and working there.

Many rely entirely on supplies shipped in by tankers filled from giant borewells that have caused groundwater levels to plummet, sparking predictions Bangalore could be the first Indian city to run out of the water.

&quot;There is a severe scarcity of water here,&quot; said Nagraj, 30, who moved to the suburban neighbourhood of Panathur a decade ago and has seen it transformed by rampant construction.

&quot;The future will be very difficult. It is impossible to imagine how they will find water, how they will live. Even if we dig 1,500 feet (450 metres) down, we are not getting water.&quot;

Panathur lies next to Bangalore&#39;s biggest lake, Bellandur, which provides a poignant reminder that things weren&#39;t always like this.

Once known as India&#39;s garden city for its lush green parks, Bangalore was built around a series of lakes created to form rainwater reservoirs and prevent the precious resource from draining away.

Many have now been concreted over to build apartment blocks with names like Dream Acres and Strawberry Fields to house the workers who have flocked here during India&#39;s outsourcing boom.

Many of those that remain are heavily polluted. Bellandur has become so toxic it spontaneously catches fire, and emits clouds of white froth so large authorities have had to build barriers to keep it from spilling onto the road.

&quot;The city is dying,&quot; says TV&nbsp;Ramachandra, an ecologist with the Indian Institute of Science who has predicted the Karnataka state capital could be the first Indian city to follow Cape Town in running out of water.

&quot;If the current trend of growth and urbanisation is allowed (to continue), by 2020, 94 percent of the landscape will be concretised.&quot;

Already, more than half of Bangalore&#39;s estimated 10 million inhabitants have to rely on borewells and tankers for their water because there isn&#39;t enough mains supply to go round.

Most of the city&#39;s municipal water is supplied by the Cauvery river, whose waters flow through Karnataka and neighbouring Tamil Nadu state before emptying into the Bay of Bengal, and have been bitterly disputed for more than a century.

Two years ago, an order to release extra water from the river to ease a shortage threatening crops in Tamil Nadu sparked deadly protests in Bangalore that forced hundreds of companies to close.

Last month the Supreme Court stepped in, altering the river-sharing arrangement in Karnataka&#39;s favour citing Bangalore&#39;s dire need.Ecologist Ramachandra says Bangalore has enough annual rainfall to provide water for its estimated 10 million people without resorting to borewells or rivers -- if only it could harvest the resource more effectively.

&quot;If there is a water crisis, we should not think about river diversion. We should think about how to retain the water,&quot; he said, blaming &quot;fragmented, uncoordinated governance&quot; for the crisis.

As in the rest of India though, there is little incentive for citizens to save water.

Despite years of drought, the government still provides clean water to citizens at heavily subsidised rates and access to groundwater is largely unregulated.

&quot;In Bangalore 1,000 bottles of the cleanest treated water comes to our doorstep and we pay only six rupees (about nine cents)... the incentive is not there,&quot; says A.R. Shivakumar, a senior scientist with the Karnataka State Council of Science and Technology.

Despite this, Shivakumar and his family have not used a single drop of mains water in the 23 years they have lived at their home in Bangalore.

Instead they rely entirely on rainwater collected through gutters and stored in large tanks under the house, which Shivakumar designed with water efficiency in mind. Even the cement used to build it was made with recycled water.

His work setting up rainwater harvesting at bus stops, in slum housing and even along the city&#39;s metro system proved so effective that city authorities now require all new housing developments to have inbuilt systems.

&quot;This crisis will force everyone to take up measures like rainwater harvesting and water conservation measures,&quot; he told AFP.

&quot;The new generation have shown a lot of concern toward the environment and conservation measures. That will definitely take it forward. Awareness is already on the increase.&quot;

Every day more than 1,000 water tankers rumble past Nagraj's small plywood store in Bangalore, throwing up clouds of dust as they rush their valuable cargo to homes and offices in India's drought-stricken tech hub

Every day more than 1,000 water tankers rumble past Nagraj's small plywood store in Bangalore, throwing up clouds of dust as they rush their valuable cargo to homes and offices in India's drought-stricken tech hub. × Gleaming new apartment blocks are still springing up all over the city is known as India's Silicon Valley -- even though there is nowhere near enough mains water to supply those already living and working there. Many rely entirely on supplies shipped in by tankers filled from giant borewells that have caused groundwater levels to plummet, sparking predictions Bangalore could be the first Indian city to run out of the water. "There is a severe scarcity of water here," said Nagraj, 30, who moved to the suburban neighbourhood of Panathur a decade ago and has seen it transformed by rampant construction. "The future will be very difficult. It is impossible to imagine how they will find water, how they will live. Even if we dig 1,500 feet (450 metres) down, we are not getting water." Panathur lies next to Bangalore's biggest lake, Bellandur, which provides a poignant reminder that things weren't always like this. Once known as India's garden city for its lush green parks, Bangalore was built around a series of lakes created to form rainwater reservoirs and prevent the precious resource from draining away. Many have now been concreted over to build apartment blocks with names like Dream Acres and Strawberry Fields to house the workers who have flocked here during India's outsourcing boom. Many of those that remain are heavily polluted. Bellandur has become so toxic it spontaneously catches fire, and emits clouds of white froth so large authorities have had to build barriers to keep it from spilling onto the road. "The city is dying," says TV Ramachandra, an ecologist with the Indian Institute of Science who has predicted the Karnataka state capital could be the first Indian city to follow Cape Town in running out of water. "If the current trend of growth and urbanisation is allowed (to continue), by 2020, 94 percent of the landscape will be concretised." Already, more than half of Bangalore's estimated 10 million inhabitants have to rely on borewells and tankers for their water because there isn't enough mains supply to go round. Most of the city's municipal water is supplied by the Cauvery river, whose waters flow through Karnataka and neighbouring Tamil Nadu state before emptying into the Bay of Bengal, and have been bitterly disputed for more than a century. Two years ago, an order to release extra water from the river to ease a shortage threatening crops in Tamil Nadu sparked deadly protests in Bangalore that forced hundreds of companies to close. Last month the Supreme Court stepped in, altering the river-sharing arrangement in Karnataka's favour citing Bangalore's dire need.Ecologist Ramachandra says Bangalore has enough annual rainfall to provide water for its estimated 10 million people without resorting to borewells or rivers -- if only it could harvest the resource more effectively. "If there is a water crisis, we should not think about river diversion. We should think about how to retain the water," he said, blaming "fragmented, uncoordinated governance" for the crisis. As in the rest of India though, there is little incentive for citizens to save water. Despite years of drought, the government still provides clean water to citizens at heavily subsidised rates and access to groundwater is largely unregulated. "In Bangalore 1,000 bottles of the cleanest treated water comes to our doorstep and we pay only six rupees (about nine cents)... the incentive is not there," says A.R. Shivakumar, a senior scientist with the Karnataka State Council of Science and Technology. Despite this, Shivakumar and his family have not used a single drop of mains water in the 23 years they have lived at their home in Bangalore. Instead they rely entirely on rainwater collected through gutters and stored in large tanks under the house, which Shivakumar designed with water efficiency in mind. Even the cement used to build it was made with recycled water. His work setting up rainwater harvesting at bus stops, in slum housing and even along the city's metro system proved so effective that city authorities now require all new housing developments to have inbuilt systems. "This crisis will force everyone to take up measures like rainwater harvesting and water conservation measures," he told AFP. "The new generation have shown a lot of concern toward the environment and conservation measures. That will definitely take it forward. Awareness is already on the increase."

India's Silicon Valley faces man-made water crisis

An innovative manmade artificial ice stupa has been created in Leh to conserve winter waste water to address the water scarcity during spring.

The stupa has become a centre of attraction for thousands of tourist including locals.

The natural glacier formed out of winter snowfall on higher reaches of mountain serves as main source of water supply in Ladakh region for farmers.

As the global warming resulted in shrinking of natural glaciers the farmers in Ladakh are facing acute shortage of water for irrigation especially during the spring season.

The winter waste water is stored in the shape of ice stupas which melts slowly during spring time thus providing an alternate source of water supply when natural glaciers don&#39;t melt properly at a point of time in spring.

The excess water from artificial ice stupa is stored in a tank constructed below it.

One of volunteer Sonam Dorjay (24), from Wakha village working on ice stupa, said that he had been working on it for the past four years and it serves as an alternate source of water in spring time.

He added that concept of Ice Stupa is based on the idea of Iceman of Ladakh Chhewang Norphel who made artificial glaciers in Nang village.

Sonam added that large number of visitors including tourist visits the Ice Stupa and the number increases on holidays and weekends.

Another volunteer Thomas Clark from USA, who had been working on this ice stupa for the past four years said that this year they built the ice stupa directly in the stream with the purpose of water conservation.

An innovative manmade artificial ice stupa has been created in Leh to conserve winter wastewater to address the water scarcity during spring

An innovative manmade artificial ice stupa has been created in Leh to conserve winter waste water to address the water scarcity during spring. The stupa has become a centre of attraction for thousands of tourist including locals. The natural glacier formed out of winter snowfall on higher reaches of mountain serves as main source of water supply in Ladakh region for farmers. As the global warming resulted in shrinking of natural glaciers the farmers in Ladakh are facing acute shortage of water for irrigation especially during the spring season. The winter waste water is stored in the shape of ice stupas which melts slowly during spring time thus providing an alternate source of water supply when natural glaciers don't melt properly at a point of time in spring. The excess water from artificial ice stupa is stored in a tank constructed below it. One of volunteer Sonam Dorjay (24), from Wakha village working on ice stupa, said that he had been working on it for the past four years and it serves as an alternate source of water in spring time. He added that concept of Ice Stupa is based on the idea of Iceman of Ladakh Chhewang Norphel who made artificial glaciers in Nang village. Sonam added that large number of visitors including tourist visits the Ice Stupa and the number increases on holidays and weekends. Another volunteer Thomas Clark from USA, who had been working on this ice stupa for the past four years said that this year they built the ice stupa directly in the stream with the purpose of water conservation.

Ice stupa of Ladakh solving water crisis

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