Delhi Water Minister Atishi on Saturday blamed the neighbouring state Haryana for the ongoing water crisis in the national capital as she highlighted the issue of reduced water releases from the Munak Canal.

Delhi Water Minister Atishi warns of 'potential chaos'

Pre-historic rock art discovered by archaeologists on the walls of sites located in the Atbai Desert in Eastern Sudan, builds a picture of the region that is very different from the present arid areas, and appears unbelievable.

Pre-historic rock art discovered by archaeologists on the walls of sites located in the Atbai Desert in Eastern Sudan, builds a picture of the region that is very different from the present arid areas, and appears unbelievable. Even though the region is currently arid, according to the artwork it once was filled with lush green bushes, pastures, water and also animal life. Interestingly, the artwork is only around 4,000 years old which hints that most likely this part of the Sahara Desert went through a rapid and radical change in just a few millennia. The archaeologists at Macquarie University, in a new study, have described the 16 rock art sites which were discovered in the deserts around Wadi Halfa, which is a city in northern Sudan close to the border with Egypt. In the different figures depicted in the art, the researchers discovered illustrations of humans, antelopes, elephants, and giraffes. According to the archaeologists, cattle also appeared often, which was surprising in the wake of the hyper-arid climate of the Atbai Desert. The region today receives almost no annual rainfall which has made cattle pastoralism impossible. In contrast to this, the rock art displays that cattle farming was a common theme of people living in the area in 3000 BCE. Also Read: AI deciphers sperm whale clicks, unravels underwater conversations In a statement, researcher Dr Julien Cooper said, “It was puzzling to find cattle carved on desert rock walls as they require plenty of water and acres of pasture, and would not survive in the dry and arid environment of the Sahara today." Cooper headed a team of archaeologists involved in the Atbai Survey Project in 2018 and 2019. “The presence of cattle in ancient rock art is one of the most important pieces of evidence establishing a once ‘green Sahara’,” Cooper said. Rainfall in Africa led to pastures in Sahara Dessert? Africa between 15,000 and 5,000 years ago received increased summer monsoon rainfall across the continent because of periodic variations in the orbit of Earth around the Sun. Because of the downpours, the continent became a flourishing land of grassy pasture which was filled with freshwater lakes. After the wet period came to an end, a drastic change took place in the region’s landscape along with many people and other animals who lived here. Watch: London's 'light into life' exhibition inspired by nature and science “The Atbai Desert around Wadi Halfa, where the new rock art was discovered, became almost completely depopulated. For those who remained, cattle were abandoned for sheep and goats,” Dr Cooper said. “This would have had major ramifications on all aspects of human life – from diet and limited milk supplies, migratory patterns of herding families and the identity and livelihood of those who depended on their cattle," the researcher said. (With inputs from agencies)

Has Sahara Desert always been barren? A 4,000-year-old rock art holds the answer

A barrage of severe storms battered the Midwest on Tuesday (May 7), unleashing heavy rain, strong gusts of wind, and tornadoes across the region, just a day after a deadly tornado ripped through Oklahoma town killing at least one person and injuring five.

Deadly tornadoes and severe storms strike American Midwest

India's Met Department has said that severe heatwave conditions will continue in several states through the weekend. The heatwave warning comes as voting is underway across several Indian states for the second phase of the general elections...

Heat waves soar as Indians go to vote, Red alert issued till April 28

Venus is often referred to as Earth's "sister planet" because of their similar size and composition, but they have some differences. Earth has abundant liquid water on its surface while Venus does not. This is because Venus is leaking.&nbsp;

The surface temperature on Venus is extremely high, reaching about 900 degrees Fahrenheit (about 475 degrees Celsius). It has a thick atmosphere of carbon dioxide and other gases which makes it impossible for liquid water to exist.

However, there is evidence to suggest that Venus may have had liquid water in its distant past.

New findings from the 2021 BepiColombo mission, a joint mission between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) with the goal of exploring the planet Mercury, revealed that gases, including oxygen, are escaping from Venus's upper atmosphere. Published in the Nature Astronomy journal, the study underscored the importance of understanding Venus's atmospheric evolution.

Venus lacks a strong magnetic field like Earth's. Its upper atmosphere is exposed to the solar wind and a stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun.&nbsp;

This interaction between the solar wind and the upper atmosphere of Venus can lead to the escape of ions, particularly hydrogen and oxygen ions, into space. These ions are stripped away from the planet's atmosphere by the solar wind.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/gravitational-waves-detect-collision-of-neutron-star-with-a-mysterious-object-in-mass-gap-710785">Gravitational waves detect collision of neutron star with a mysterious object in 'mass gap'</a>

This process, known as atmospheric escape, contributes to the gradual loss of atmosphere from Venus over time.

Understanding the mechanisms of atmospheric escape on Venus can provide understanding into its evolution and the conditions that may have led to its current state.&nbsp;

<h2>Fly-by of Venus&nbsp;</h2>

During its fly-by of Venus, BepiColombo data, collected over 90 minutes, provided these insights into the chemical and physical mechanisms at play in Venus's magnetosheath. Venus lacks an intrinsic magnetic field but possesses an induced magnetosphere due to solar winds, shaping its magnetosheath.

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The study, utilising BepiColombo's Mass Spectrum Analyser and Mercury Ion Analyser, emphasises Venus's divergent evolution from Earth, leading to its extremely dry atmosphere.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chatgpt-to-go-mainstream-710787">ChatGPT to go mainstream?</a>

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"Therefore, studying and characterising the present escape of ions from Venus is important for understanding the evolution of its atmosphere, and in particular, the evolution of water on the surface of the planet. Such studies may also provide insights into the general climate and habitability evolution of terrestrial planets and exoplanetary systems," according to the study.

(With inputs from agencies)

Venus is often referred to as Earth's "sister planet" because of their similar size and composition, but they have some differences. Earth has abundant liquid water on its surface while Venus does not.

Venus is often referred to as Earth's "sister planet" because of their similar size and composition, but they have some differences. Earth has abundant liquid water on its surface while Venus does not. This is because Venus is leaking. The surface temperature on Venus is extremely high, reaching about 900 degrees Fahrenheit (about 475 degrees Celsius). It has a thick atmosphere of carbon dioxide and other gases which makes it impossible for liquid water to exist. However, there is evidence to suggest that Venus may have had liquid water in its distant past. New findings from the 2021 BepiColombo mission, a joint mission between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) with the goal of exploring the planet Mercury, revealed that gases, including oxygen, are escaping from Venus's upper atmosphere. Published in the Nature Astronomy journal, the study underscored the importance of understanding Venus's atmospheric evolution. Venus lacks a strong magnetic field like Earth's. Its upper atmosphere is exposed to the solar wind and a stream of charged particles emitted by the Sun. This interaction between the solar wind and the upper atmosphere of Venus can lead to the escape of ions, particularly hydrogen and oxygen ions, into space. These ions are stripped away from the planet's atmosphere by the solar wind. Also Read | Gravitational waves detect collision of neutron star with a mysterious object in 'mass gap' This process, known as atmospheric escape, contributes to the gradual loss of atmosphere from Venus over time. Understanding the mechanisms of atmospheric escape on Venus can provide understanding into its evolution and the conditions that may have led to its current state. Fly-by of Venus During its fly-by of Venus, BepiColombo data, collected over 90 minutes, provided these insights into the chemical and physical mechanisms at play in Venus's magnetosheath. Venus lacks an intrinsic magnetic field but possesses an induced magnetosphere due to solar winds, shaping its magnetosheath. Also Read | Study unearths practice of women sacrifices across Europe during Stone Age The study, utilising BepiColombo's Mass Spectrum Analyser and Mercury Ion Analyser, emphasises Venus's divergent evolution from Earth, leading to its extremely dry atmosphere. Watch | ChatGPT to go mainstream? × "Therefore, studying and characterising the present escape of ions from Venus is important for understanding the evolution of its atmosphere, and in particular, the evolution of water on the surface of the planet. Such studies may also provide insights into the general climate and habitability evolution of terrestrial planets and exoplanetary systems," according to the study. (With inputs from agencies)

Did you know Venus is leaking?  BepiColombo mission finds out why ...

On Monday the seas of the Fujian Province in east China's Pingtan island were illuminated by a natural phenomenon known as "blue tears". Watch to know more.

China: Sparkling 'blue tears' illuminate Pingtan island in Fujian

In India's Bengaluru city, thousands of people have been chasing tankers, taking fewer showers and sometimes missing work to store enough water to get through the day. Watch in for more details!

India: IT hub Bengaluru running out of water

Melting polar ice caps are redistributing a massive amount of water from the north and south poles across the world's oceans. This is causing the earth's rotation to significantly slow. The melting ice caused due to climate change is not just slowing earth's rotation, but its also affecting time. Watch this report to know more.

Melting polar ice is slowing earth's rotation

We've all grown up hearing that Earth is a blue planet, with the majority of its surface — a whopping 71 per cent or three quarters — covered with water.

But, is there any water in Earth's crust? If so, how much water lies underground?&nbsp;

<h2>Underground water</h2>

Yes, as per a 2021 study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, there is more water underground or under the earth's surface than in the planet's ice caps and glaciers.

This underground water is held in soil or in pores in rocks, and the amount there is may shock you.

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Talking to Live Science, Grant Ferguson, a hydrogeologist at the University of Saskatchewan and lead author of the 2021 study, revealed that the Earth's crust holds approximately 43.9 million cubic kilometres (10.5 million cubic miles) of water.

In comparison, Antarctica's ice contains about 6.5 million cubic miles (27 million cubic km) of water, Greenland's ice holds around 720,000 cubic miles (3 million cubic km). Additionally, glaciers outside Antarctica and Greenland have about 38,000 cubic miles (158,000 cubic km) of water.

Nevertheless, the oceans on Earth's surface remain the planet's largest water reservoir, holding approximately 312 million cubic miles (1.3 billion cubic km) of water.&nbsp;

Now we know that after oceans, groundwater is the Earth's largest water reservoir.

The 2021 study has expanded previous estimates by considering groundwater within the upper 6.2 miles (9.98 kilometres) of Earth's crust, including sedimentary rocks, which are more porous than crystalline rocks. With this, our previous estimates of groundwater have more than doubled from about 2 million cubic miles (8.5 million cubic km) to 4.9 million cubic miles (20.3 million cubic km).&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/time-to-stop-in-2029-melting-polar-ice-slows-earths-rotation-scientists-warn-705093">Time to stop in 2029? Melting polar ice slows Earth's rotation, scientists warn...</a>

This new estimate, as per Live Science, is nearly as large as the 5.7 million cubic miles (23.6 million cubic km) calculated for shallow groundwater.&nbsp;

<h2>Why does this matters?</h2>

The deeper groundwater, which is mostly salty, is isolated from the rest of the planet's water and as per the scientists, has been trapped for extraordinarily long spans of time in some places. This, as per Ferguson, can offer valuable insights into Earth's history.

"We know very little about these waters at depths greater than a few kilometres, making it a frontier area for science," he said. Furthermore, he said that the water may support microbial ecosystems that are still active today, which can help ascertain how life evolved on Earth.

(With inputs from agencies)

We've all grown up hearing that Earth is a blue planet, with the majority of its surface — a whopping 71 per cent or three quarters — covered with water. But, is there any water in Earth's crust?

We've all grown up hearing that Earth is a blue planet, with the majority of its surface — a whopping 71 per cent or three quarters — covered with water. But, is there any water in Earth's crust? If so, how much water lies underground? Underground water Yes, as per a 2021 study published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, there is more water underground or under the earth's surface than in the planet's ice caps and glaciers. This underground water is held in soil or in pores in rocks, and the amount there is may shock you. Also read | We are the infectors: Humans pass on viruses to animals twice than the other way around! Talking to Live Science, Grant Ferguson, a hydrogeologist at the University of Saskatchewan and lead author of the 2021 study, revealed that the Earth's crust holds approximately 43.9 million cubic kilometres (10.5 million cubic miles) of water. In comparison, Antarctica's ice contains about 6.5 million cubic miles (27 million cubic km) of water, Greenland's ice holds around 720,000 cubic miles (3 million cubic km). Additionally, glaciers outside Antarctica and Greenland have about 38,000 cubic miles (158,000 cubic km) of water. Nevertheless, the oceans on Earth's surface remain the planet's largest water reservoir, holding approximately 312 million cubic miles (1.3 billion cubic km) of water. Now we know that after oceans, groundwater is the Earth's largest water reservoir. The 2021 study has expanded previous estimates by considering groundwater within the upper 6.2 miles (9.98 kilometres) of Earth's crust, including sedimentary rocks, which are more porous than crystalline rocks. With this, our previous estimates of groundwater have more than doubled from about 2 million cubic miles (8.5 million cubic km) to 4.9 million cubic miles (20.3 million cubic km). Also read | Time to stop in 2029? Melting polar ice slows Earth's rotation, scientists warn... This new estimate, as per Live Science, is nearly as large as the 5.7 million cubic miles (23.6 million cubic km) calculated for shallow groundwater. Why does this matters? The deeper groundwater, which is mostly salty, is isolated from the rest of the planet's water and as per the scientists, has been trapped for extraordinarily long spans of time in some places. This, as per Ferguson, can offer valuable insights into Earth's history. "We know very little about these waters at depths greater than a few kilometres, making it a frontier area for science," he said. Furthermore, he said that the water may support microbial ecosystems that are still active today, which can help ascertain how life evolved on Earth. (With inputs from agencies)

Delving deep: Earth's crust holds more water than its ice caps, reveals study

Water corporations' sewage discharges into England's rivers and oceans more than doubled in the previous year. The Environment Agency reports that there were 3.6 million spill hours in 2023 as opposed to 1.75 million hours in 2022.

Water UK, the industry body for sewerage companies, said it was 'unacceptable' but the record levels were due to heavy rain. 
 
These spills are not against the law but environmentalists say they should only happen in exceptional weather.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/role-reversal-humans-to-blame-shocking-study-reveals-humans-infect-animals-twice-as-much-704746">We are the infectors: Humans pass on viruses to animals twice than the other way around!</a>

The Environment Agency was quoted saying, "It is important to note that heavy rainfall does not affect water companies' responsibility to manage storm overflows in line with legal requirements."

Because the UK has integrated sewage systems, sewage and rainwater share pipes, which increases the risk of overflowing sewage treatment facilities during heavy precipitation. Sewage is spilled into waterways to prevent the system backing up.

On an average last year there were 1,271 spills a day across England, compared to 825 in 2022. 
 
The spills contained human waste, wet wipes and sanitary products, which can pose a serious risk to the local wildlife, swimmers and others who use UK waterways.

Dr. Dania Albini, a research fellow in biosciences at the University of Exeter, stated, "Sewage pollution in the UK severely impacts waterways with not a single river in England rated as healthy according to the latest Rivers Trust Rivers report."

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She explained that sewage in rivers can decrease oxygen levels in the water which harms aquatic life and "causes sickness in humans due to the presence of harmful microorganisms and parasites."

In may be noted here, in when the River Thames was in flood, testing at Fulham Reach by the charity River Action revealed that there was up to 10 times the amount of E.coli bacteria that is allowed for bathing water status.

Water UK said last year that it would invest £10 billion to upgrade sewage infrastructure on behalf of all English sewerage businesses. However, these plans require approval from the regulator, Ofwat.

Water UK urged the government to move quickly on this decision and other initiatives, such as banning wet wipes, which they claimed would stop thousands of spills caused by clogged drains. Six years ago, the administration made a pledge to enact this restriction.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chronic-fatigue-syndrome-is-biological-key-study-confirms-703678">Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is 'biological', key study confirms</a>

Water Minister Robbie Moore said, I have been clear that sewage pollution in our waters is unacceptable. Today's data shows water companies must go further and faster to tackle storm overflows and clean up our precious waterways. We will be ensuring the Environment Agency closely scrutinise these findings and take enforcement action where necessary."

"I have been clear that sewage pollution in our waters is unacceptable," stated Robbie Moore, the minister of water resources. According to data from today, water companies need to act more quickly and thoroughly to clean up our valuable rivers and prevent storm overflows. We'll make sure the Environment Agency carefully examines these conclusions and, if required, takes appropriate enforcement action."

The most recent information was gathered from monitoring stations positioned at combined sewer overflows, or CSOs, and was made public by the Environment Agency on March 27. In order to lessen the possibility of sewage backing up in people's homes during periods of severe rainfall due to overburdened sewer systems, CSOs were created as overflow valves.

Because of the heavy rainfall in 2023—which was 20 per cent above average—and the fact that all 14,580 CSOs were equipped with monitors for the first time, it was anticipated that there would be more spills overall. Only half of spills were reported in 2019 since only 57 per cent of vehicles had monitoring installed. 
 
In the small Surrey town of Horley, just outside Gatwick Airport, residents have seen local footpaths flooded ten times in the last year as the treatment works struggled to cope with heavy rainfall.

According to locals, they have repeatedly contacted Thames Water and the Environment Agency about the issue but said all they have done is put sandbags down.

(With inputs from agencies)

Water corporations' sewage discharges into England's rivers and oceans more than doubled in the previous year. The Environment Agency reports that there were 3.6 million spill hours in 2023 as opposed to 1.

Water corporations' sewage discharges into England's rivers and oceans more than doubled in the previous year. The Environment Agency reports that there were 3.6 million spill hours in 2023 as opposed to 1.75 million hours in 2022. Water UK, the industry body for sewerage companies, said it was 'unacceptable' but the record levels were due to heavy rain. These spills are not against the law but environmentalists say they should only happen in exceptional weather. Also read: We are the infectors: Humans pass on viruses to animals twice than the other way around! The Environment Agency was quoted saying, "It is important to note that heavy rainfall does not affect water companies' responsibility to manage storm overflows in line with legal requirements." Because the UK has integrated sewage systems, sewage and rainwater share pipes, which increases the risk of overflowing sewage treatment facilities during heavy precipitation. Sewage is spilled into waterways to prevent the system backing up. On an average last year there were 1,271 spills a day across England, compared to 825 in 2022. The spills contained human waste, wet wipes and sanitary products, which can pose a serious risk to the local wildlife, swimmers and others who use UK waterways. Dr. Dania Albini, a research fellow in biosciences at the University of Exeter, stated, "Sewage pollution in the UK severely impacts waterways with not a single river in England rated as healthy according to the latest Rivers Trust Rivers report." Also read: Asian hornets can be "absolutely catastrophic" for consumers in UK, says bug expert She explained that sewage in rivers can decrease oxygen levels in the water which harms aquatic life and "causes sickness in humans due to the presence of harmful microorganisms and parasites." In may be noted here, in when the River Thames was in flood, testing at Fulham Reach by the charity River Action revealed that there was up to 10 times the amount of E.coli bacteria that is allowed for bathing water status. Water UK said last year that it would invest £10 billion to upgrade sewage infrastructure on behalf of all English sewerage businesses. However, these plans require approval from the regulator, Ofwat. Water UK urged the government to move quickly on this decision and other initiatives, such as banning wet wipes, which they claimed would stop thousands of spills caused by clogged drains. Six years ago, the administration made a pledge to enact this restriction. Also read: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is 'biological', key study confirms Water Minister Robbie Moore said, I have been clear that sewage pollution in our waters is unacceptable. Today's data shows water companies must go further and faster to tackle storm overflows and clean up our precious waterways. We will be ensuring the Environment Agency closely scrutinise these findings and take enforcement action where necessary." "I have been clear that sewage pollution in our waters is unacceptable," stated Robbie Moore, the minister of water resources. According to data from today, water companies need to act more quickly and thoroughly to clean up our valuable rivers and prevent storm overflows. We'll make sure the Environment Agency carefully examines these conclusions and, if required, takes appropriate enforcement action." The most recent information was gathered from monitoring stations positioned at combined sewer overflows, or CSOs, and was made public by the Environment Agency on March 27. In order to lessen the possibility of sewage backing up in people's homes during periods of severe rainfall due to overburdened sewer systems, CSOs were created as overflow valves. Because of the heavy rainfall in 2023—which was 20 per cent above average—and the fact that all 14,580 CSOs were equipped with monitors for the first time, it was anticipated that there would be more spills overall. Only half of spills were reported in 2019 since only 57 per cent of vehicles had monitoring installed. In the small Surrey town of Horley, just outside Gatwick Airport, residents have seen local footpaths flooded ten times in the last year as the treatment works struggled to cope with heavy rainfall. According to locals, they have repeatedly contacted Thames Water and the Environment Agency about the issue but said all they have done is put sandbags down. (With inputs from agencies)

Spills of raw sewage into England’s rivers and seas doubled in 2023

In a world grappling with an escalating water crisis, the United Nations has sounded the alarm on the critical link between water scarcity and global conflict. The latest findings from the UNESCO world water development report 2024 are troubling.

Water scarcity is threat to world peace, UN warns

A Guatemalan river known for its high percentage of contamination has become a health risk. A recent revelation has brought to light the dire conditions of a river overwhelmed by the city's waste.

Guatemalan 'waste river' causes environmental and health hazards

In the heart of Mexico's northern state of Coahuila, ancient oasis of Cuatro Cienegas finds itself on the brink of an ecological crisis. Alfalfa plants have swayed under a thin veil of mist in coahuila, a testament to the region's centuries-old agricultural tradition.

Mexico's vital oasis in crisis

According to the United Nations World Water Development Report 2023, around 2 billion people worldwide do not have access to clean drinking water. It draws attention to an imminent water emergency that the world may be headed to. One man in India is creating a silent impact in this space. He has made his life’s mission to clean and rejuvenate water bodies –– one pond at a time!

Indian man's mission to rejuvenate water bodies

In the heart of mexico's northern state of coahuila, ancient oasis of cuatro cienegas finds itself on the brink of an ecological crisis. Alfalfa plants have swayed under a thin veil of mist in coahuila, a testament to the region's centuries-old agricultural tradition.

Water is disappearing from Mexico's vital desert oasis

Bengaluru water scarcity is worsening. India's Silicon Valley has been staring at water crisis for weeks. People are scrambling for water, amidst dried-up borewells & overburdened tanker services. Bengaluru’s water woes are also likely to affect its real estate market.

Bengaluru Water Crisis: Will Bengaluru property rates plummet?

Bengaluru is struggling with water crisis. Groundwater is depleting. Cauvery Basin is facing drought. Of the 14,700 borewells in Bengaluru, 6,997 have dried up, as per reports. Residents in Bengaluru are struggling with every water drop. This raises a question of whether Bengaluru is heading towards Cape Town-like 'Day Zero'.

Bengaluru water crisis: Is Bengaluru heading towards Cape Town-like day zero?

Bengaluru, India's IT hub, grapples with a severe water shortage as scant rainfall has caused&nbsp;a significant drop in the Cauvery River's water level. This scarcity not only affects irrigation but has also led to a drinking water crisis in parts of Karnataka's capital.

In response to the dire situation, a housing society in Bengaluru's Whitefield district has implemented a ₹5,000 fine for residents found misusing drinking water. A security guard has been deployed to oversee compliance with this measure amidst the city's worsening water crisis, as reported by India Today.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/world-water-day-2023-parched-the-drying-future-of-water-574715" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/world-water-day-2023-parched-the-drying-future-of-water-574715&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwil5_7N292EAxX8UGwGHandDy0QFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0RQtJ3DRYZUIeEqaMSToiN" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/world-water-day-2023-parched-the-drying-future-of-water-574715" target="_blank">World&nbsp;Water&nbsp;Day 2023: Parched! The drying future of&nbsp;water</a>

"The Palm Meadows" housing society, situated in Whitefield, issued a notice explaining that it has been without water from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board for the past four days. The society is currently relying on borewells, risking the rapid depletion of groundwater.

Whitefield, along with Yelahanka and Kanakpura, stands among the worst-affected areas in the city due to the ongoing water scarcity. The Apartment Owners Association (AOA) of "The Palm Meadows" expressed concerns about the imminent depletion of groundwater.

To address the water crisis, the Apartment Owners Association (AOA) has decided to enforce a 20 per cent reduction in water consumption for each unit. Failure to meet this target may result in an additional charge of ₹5,000, with the reduction expected to escalate to 40 per cent during peak summer months.

The AOA warns of increased penalties for repeated violations and plans to intensify patrolling with the assistance of an additional security personnel.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-may-become-water-deficit-desert-due-to-climate-change-study-618822" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-may-become-water-deficit-desert-due-to-climate-change-study-618822&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwil5_7N292EAxX8UGwGHandDy0QFnoECAMQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YK_Ip-TA0PYJTL9luf1e6" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/punjab-may-become-water-deficit-desert-due-to-climate-change-study-618822" target="_blank">India's Punjab may become 'water&nbsp;deficit desert'</a>

Various other housing societies in Bengaluru have also cautioned residents to be mindful of their daily water usage.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar convened a crucial meeting to tackle the drinking water shortage in Bengaluru. Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar emphasised the seriousness of the issue, revealing that over 3,000 borewells have dried up in the city.

To regulate water tanker operations, Shivakumar issued a warning, stating that tankers not registered with authorities by the March 7 deadline would face government seizure. With a harsher summer anticipated, government assessments as of February 10 indicate potential drinking water crises in 7,082 villages across Karnataka and 1,193 wards, including those in Bengaluru Urban district.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bengaluru, India's IT hub, grapples with a severe water shortage as scant rainfall has caused a significant drop in the Cauvery River's water level. This scarcity not only affects irrigation but has also led to a drinking water crisis in parts of Karnataka's capital.

Bengaluru, India's IT hub, grapples with a severe water shortage as scant rainfall has caused a significant drop in the Cauvery River's water level. This scarcity not only affects irrigation but has also led to a drinking water crisis in parts of Karnataka's capital. In response to the dire situation, a housing society in Bengaluru's Whitefield district has implemented a ₹5,000 fine for residents found misusing drinking water. A security guard has been deployed to oversee compliance with this measure amidst the city's worsening water crisis, as reported by India Today. Also read: World Water Day 2023: Parched! The drying future of water "The Palm Meadows" housing society, situated in Whitefield, issued a notice explaining that it has been without water from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board for the past four days. The society is currently relying on borewells, risking the rapid depletion of groundwater. Whitefield, along with Yelahanka and Kanakpura, stands among the worst-affected areas in the city due to the ongoing water scarcity. The Apartment Owners Association (AOA) of "The Palm Meadows" expressed concerns about the imminent depletion of groundwater. To address the water crisis, the Apartment Owners Association (AOA) has decided to enforce a 20 per cent reduction in water consumption for each unit. Failure to meet this target may result in an additional charge of ₹5,000, with the reduction expected to escalate to 40 per cent during peak summer months. The AOA warns of increased penalties for repeated violations and plans to intensify patrolling with the assistance of an additional security personnel. Also read: India's Punjab may become 'water deficit desert' Various other housing societies in Bengaluru have also cautioned residents to be mindful of their daily water usage. Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar convened a crucial meeting to tackle the drinking water shortage in Bengaluru. Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar emphasised the seriousness of the issue, revealing that over 3,000 borewells have dried up in the city. To regulate water tanker operations, Shivakumar issued a warning, stating that tankers not registered with authorities by the March 7 deadline would face government seizure. With a harsher summer anticipated, government assessments as of February 10 indicate potential drinking water crises in 7,082 villages across Karnataka and 1,193 wards, including those in Bengaluru Urban district. (With inputs from agencies)

Water crisis in Bengaluru: Housing society implements fine for water misuse 

Melbourne, Cairo, Bengaluru are among the cities witnessing water shortages. What is the way out of this mess? Molly Gambhir gets you the complete story.

Gravitas | The world's growing water woes, the world's thirsty cities

Italy's Sicily is known for its pictures landscapes and vibrant tourist attractions but it is grappling with a severe drought after a lack of winter rainfall.

In drought-hit Sicily, water is 'gold', severe decline of water resources up to 80%

In a never-heard climate intervention strategy, scientists are now planning to decrease the amount of water vapour present in the stratosphere. This, they think can be carried out by injecting the layer of atmosphere with ice-forming nuclei.

According to scientists, if the water content is reduced, more heat - in the form of infrared radiation - will leak out into space.&nbsp;

The strategy being explored by the scientists was mentioned in a study published in Science Advances.&nbsp;

Even though greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane are the important factors driving&nbsp;human-caused climate change, water vapour is considered the most common greenhouse gas.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/january-was-worlds-warmest-on-record-eu-scientists-688348">January was world's warmest on record, EU scientists</a>

Hence, the removal of water vapour from the atmosphere will help mitigate climate change, as per the study.

<h2>How does dehydration of stratosphere help fight climate change?</h2>

The study was carried out by researchers from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). According to the study, scientists suggest trying out "intentional stratospheric dehydration."

As per the study lead author Joshua Schwarz, who is also a research physicist at NOAA’s Chemical Sciences Laboratory in Boulder, Colorado, this process will be carried out by seeding small particles, known as ice nuclei,&nbsp;into the stratosphere with the help of high-altitude planes.

Schwarz said that if such seeds can be added to the stratosphere, then some of the water vapour is likely to condense in ice and fall, which will eventually remove excess water vapour and dehydrate the stratosphere.

Watch:&nbsp;Antarctic sea ice depleting due to rising temperatures

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According to the study, the strategy can plausibly work after the experts have overcome several technical barriers. Schwarz said that right now, "we don't have a plan or the technology to do this".

He further said that it will not counteract the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) and added that it will only cool the atmosphere 1/70th which is equal to the amount of warmth being given by CO2. It will only be "a very small shift in the other direction".

He added that CO2 becomes a huge problem in our atmosphere and that the new method will have a small impact, in comparison to CO2.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a never-heard climate intervention strategy, scientists are now planning to decrease the amount of water vapour present in the stratosphere. This, they think can be carried out by injecting the layer of atmosphere with ice-forming nuclei.

In a never-heard climate intervention strategy, scientists are now planning to decrease the amount of water vapour present in the stratosphere. This, they think can be carried out by injecting the layer of atmosphere with ice-forming nuclei. According to scientists, if the water content is reduced, more heat - in the form of infrared radiation - will leak out into space. The strategy being explored by the scientists was mentioned in a study published in Science Advances. Even though greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and methane are the important factors driving human-caused climate change, water vapour is considered the most common greenhouse gas. Also Read: January was world's warmest on record, EU scientists Hence, the removal of water vapour from the atmosphere will help mitigate climate change, as per the study. How does dehydration of stratosphere help fight climate change? The study was carried out by researchers from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). According to the study, scientists suggest trying out "intentional stratospheric dehydration." As per the study lead author Joshua Schwarz, who is also a research physicist at NOAA’s Chemical Sciences Laboratory in Boulder, Colorado, this process will be carried out by seeding small particles, known as ice nuclei, into the stratosphere with the help of high-altitude planes. Schwarz said that if such seeds can be added to the stratosphere, then some of the water vapour is likely to condense in ice and fall, which will eventually remove excess water vapour and dehydrate the stratosphere. Watch: Antarctic sea ice depleting due to rising temperatures According to the study, the strategy can plausibly work after the experts have overcome several technical barriers. Schwarz said that right now, "we don't have a plan or the technology to do this". He further said that it will not counteract the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) and added that it will only cool the atmosphere 1/70th which is equal to the amount of warmth being given by CO2. It will only be "a very small shift in the other direction". He added that CO2 becomes a huge problem in our atmosphere and that the new method will have a small impact, in comparison to CO2. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists plan to suck out water from Earth's atmosphere to fight climate change

Satellite images of the hotly disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea show a new floating barrier across its entrance, near where Philippine ships and China coast guard vessels have had frequent run-ins.

One of the images taken by Maxar Technologies on Feb. 22 and viewed by Reuters showed the barrier blocking the mouth of the shoal, where the Chinese coast guard last week claimed to have driven off a Philippine vessel&nbsp;"illegally intruding"&nbsp;into Beijing's waters.

The Philippines, which last week deployed a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel to patrol the shoal and transport fuel to Filipino fishermen in the area, said that China's claims were "inaccurate" and that Manila's activities there were lawful.

China claims the Scarborough Shoal, although it is inside the Philippines' 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. An international arbitration tribunal in the Hague said in 2016 that China's claims had no legal basis - a decision Beijing has rejected.

That makes the atoll one of Asia's most contested maritime features and a flashpoint for diplomatic flare-ups over sovereignty and fishing rights.

The satellite image bolsters a report and video distributed by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday showing two Chinese coast guard inflatable boats deploying floating barriers at the shoal's entrance on Feb 22.

The PCG said that a China coast guard ship shadowed the BFAR vessel, "conducted blocking manoeuvres" about 1.3 nautical miles (2.4 km) off the shoal, and closely approached it.

"We can assume that (the barrier) is intended for Philippine government vessels because they install it every time they monitor our presence within the BDM vicinity," Jay Tarriela, a spokesperson at the Philippine Coast Guard said, referring to Bajo de Masinloc, Manila's name for the shoal.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said "Huangyan Dao", China's name for the shoal, was "China's inherent territory".

"Recently, the Philippine side has taken a series of actions to violate China's sovereignty" in the shoal's waters, she said. "China has to take necessary measures to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests."

Another satellite image showed what Maxar technologies described as "possible Chinese interception of a BFAR vessel" at Scarborough Shoal.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion in annual ship commerce. Its territorial claims overlap with those of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei.

"What we are seeing at the Scarborough Shoal now is likely the beginning of Beijing's pushback against Manila's pushback," said Ian Storey, a senior fellow at Singapore’s ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.

Since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr took office in June 2022, the Philippines has challenged China's presence at Scarborough and its attempts to stop the resupply of Filipino troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, he said.

"China's attempts to prevent Filipino fishermen from fishing at Scarborough Shoal is absolutely illegal," Storey said. "The 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling gave fishermen from both countries the right to (fish there). Manila is merely supporting the legitimate rights of Filipino fishermen."

The shoal is coveted for its bountiful fish stocks and a stunning turquoise lagoon that provides a safe haven for vessels during storms.

The Chinese removed the barrier a few hours after the BFAR vessel left, Tarriela said. It was not clear from the photos how robust the barrier was and whether it would have posed an obstacle to larger warships.

In an article on Sunday, state-media outlet Global Times said "the Philippines has abused and unilaterally sabotaged the foundation of Beijing's goodwill to Manila" that allowed Philippine fishermen to operate nearby, by working against China's sovereignty and jurisdiction.

"If such provocations persist, China could be forced to take more effective measures to control the situation," the article said, citing experts.

&nbsp;

Satellite images of the hotly disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea show a new floating barrier across its entrance, near where Philippine ships and China coast guard vessels have had frequent run-ins.

Satellite images of the hotly disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea show a new floating barrier across its entrance, near where Philippine ships and China coast guard vessels have had frequent run-ins. One of the images taken by Maxar Technologies on Feb. 22 and viewed by Reuters showed the barrier blocking the mouth of the shoal, where the Chinese coast guard last week claimed to have driven off a Philippine vessel "illegally intruding" into Beijing's waters. The Philippines, which last week deployed a Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) vessel to patrol the shoal and transport fuel to Filipino fishermen in the area, said that China's claims were "inaccurate" and that Manila's activities there were lawful. China claims the Scarborough Shoal, although it is inside the Philippines' 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone. An international arbitration tribunal in the Hague said in 2016 that China's claims had no legal basis - a decision Beijing has rejected. That makes the atoll one of Asia's most contested maritime features and a flashpoint for diplomatic flare-ups over sovereignty and fishing rights. The satellite image bolsters a report and video distributed by the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Sunday showing two Chinese coast guard inflatable boats deploying floating barriers at the shoal's entrance on Feb 22. The PCG said that a China coast guard ship shadowed the BFAR vessel, "conducted blocking manoeuvres" about 1.3 nautical miles (2.4 km) off the shoal, and closely approached it. "We can assume that (the barrier) is intended for Philippine government vessels because they install it every time they monitor our presence within the BDM vicinity," Jay Tarriela, a spokesperson at the Philippine Coast Guard said, referring to Bajo de Masinloc, Manila's name for the shoal. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said "Huangyan Dao", China's name for the shoal, was "China's inherent territory". "Recently, the Philippine side has taken a series of actions to violate China's sovereignty" in the shoal's waters, she said. "China has to take necessary measures to firmly safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests." Another satellite image showed what Maxar technologies described as "possible Chinese interception of a BFAR vessel" at Scarborough Shoal. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, a conduit for more than $3 trillion in annual ship commerce. Its territorial claims overlap with those of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei. "What we are seeing at the Scarborough Shoal now is likely the beginning of Beijing's pushback against Manila's pushback," said Ian Storey, a senior fellow at Singapore’s ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute. Since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr took office in June 2022, the Philippines has challenged China's presence at Scarborough and its attempts to stop the resupply of Filipino troops stationed at Second Thomas Shoal, he said. "China's attempts to prevent Filipino fishermen from fishing at Scarborough Shoal is absolutely illegal," Storey said. "The 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling gave fishermen from both countries the right to (fish there). Manila is merely supporting the legitimate rights of Filipino fishermen." The shoal is coveted for its bountiful fish stocks and a stunning turquoise lagoon that provides a safe haven for vessels during storms. The Chinese removed the barrier a few hours after the BFAR vessel left, Tarriela said. It was not clear from the photos how robust the barrier was and whether it would have posed an obstacle to larger warships. In an article on Sunday, state-media outlet Global Times said "the Philippines has abused and unilaterally sabotaged the foundation of Beijing's goodwill to Manila" that allowed Philippine fishermen to operate nearby, by working against China's sovereignty and jurisdiction. "If such provocations persist, China could be forced to take more effective measures to control the situation," the article said, citing experts.

Satellite images reveal floating barrier at mouth of disputed atoll in South China Sea

Scientists have found that the average litre of bottled water contains nearly a quarter million invisible pieces of ever-so-tiny nanoplastics. They have detected and categorised these nanoplastics for the first time by a microscope using dual lasers in a major study.&nbsp;

The researchers have discovered bottled water sold in stores can contain 10 to 100 times more bits of plastic than previous estimations.

The presence of microscopic plastic pieces was found by scientists long ago, but in the latest study, researchers at Columbia and Rutgers universities calculated microscopic plastic to find out how many or what kind of pieces are present in bottled water.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-35-unknown-bacteria-species-in-patient-samples-from-hospital-678160">Scientists discover 35 unknown bacteria species in patient samples from hospital</a>&nbsp;

To carry out the study, published on Monday (Jan 8) in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the scientists observed five samples each of three common bottled water brands.&nbsp;

Without revealing the names of the brands, the scientists said that they found particle levels ranged from 110,000 to 400,000 per litre, averaging at around 240,000.&nbsp;

The study titled, 'Rapid single-particle chemical imaging of nanoplastics by SRS microscopy', underlines the health impact of microplastics and nanoplastics, which are now omnipresent in our daily lives.&nbsp;

The study found that these are particles that are less than a micron in size and there are 25,400 microns in an inch. The microns are also called micrometres because it is a millionth of a metre. Just for reference, human hair is about 83 microns wide.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/first-polar-bear-death-from-bird-flu-raises-concerns-for-extant-species-678191">First polar bear death from bird flu raises concerns for species already battling climate change</a>&nbsp;

Previous research has focused on slightly larger microplastics ranging from observable five millimetres (less than a quarter of an inch) to one micron. According to the study, bottled water had 10 to 100 times more nanoplastics than microplastics.&nbsp;

As quoted by The Associated Press, Naixin Qian, a Columbia physical chemist, who is also the lead author, said that much of the plastic seems to be coming from the bottle itself and the reverse osmosis membrane filter used to keep out other contaminants.&nbsp;

<h2>Are those nanoplastic pieces harmful to health?</h2>

The data indicates that these nanoplastics can easily enter our bodies, but the researchers still can't answer how will it impact the organs.&nbsp;

As quoted, study co-author Phoebe Stapleton, a toxicologist at Rutgers said: "That's currently under review. We don't know if it’s dangerous or how dangerous. We do know that they are getting into the tissues (of mammals, including people) … and the current research is looking at what they’re doing in the cells."&nbsp;

In a statement, the International Bottled Water Association said: "There currently is both a lack of standardized (measuring) methods and no scientific consensus on the potential health impacts of nano- and microplastic particles. Therefore, media reports about these particles in drinking water do nothing more than unnecessarily scare consumers."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scientists have found that the average litre of bottled water contains nearly a quarter million invisible pieces of ever-so-tiny nanoplastics. They have detected and categorised these nanoplastics for the first time by a microscope using dual lasers in a major study.

Scientists have found that the average litre of bottled water contains nearly a quarter million invisible pieces of ever-so-tiny nanoplastics. They have detected and categorised these nanoplastics for the first time by a microscope using dual lasers in a major study. The researchers have discovered bottled water sold in stores can contain 10 to 100 times more bits of plastic than previous estimations. The presence of microscopic plastic pieces was found by scientists long ago, but in the latest study, researchers at Columbia and Rutgers universities calculated microscopic plastic to find out how many or what kind of pieces are present in bottled water. Also read: Scientists discover 35 unknown bacteria species in patient samples from hospital To carry out the study, published on Monday (Jan 8) in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the scientists observed five samples each of three common bottled water brands. Without revealing the names of the brands, the scientists said that they found particle levels ranged from 110,000 to 400,000 per litre, averaging at around 240,000. The study titled, 'Rapid single-particle chemical imaging of nanoplastics by SRS microscopy', underlines the health impact of microplastics and nanoplastics, which are now omnipresent in our daily lives. The study found that these are particles that are less than a micron in size and there are 25,400 microns in an inch. The microns are also called micrometres because it is a millionth of a metre. Just for reference, human hair is about 83 microns wide. Also read: First polar bear death from bird flu raises concerns for species already battling climate change Previous research has focused on slightly larger microplastics ranging from observable five millimetres (less than a quarter of an inch) to one micron. According to the study, bottled water had 10 to 100 times more nanoplastics than microplastics. As quoted by The Associated Press, Naixin Qian, a Columbia physical chemist, who is also the lead author, said that much of the plastic seems to be coming from the bottle itself and the reverse osmosis membrane filter used to keep out other contaminants. Are those nanoplastic pieces harmful to health? The data indicates that these nanoplastics can easily enter our bodies, but the researchers still can't answer how will it impact the organs. As quoted, study co-author Phoebe Stapleton, a toxicologist at Rutgers said: "That's currently under review. We don't know if it’s dangerous or how dangerous. We do know that they are getting into the tissues (of mammals, including people) … and the current research is looking at what they’re doing in the cells." In a statement, the International Bottled Water Association said: "There currently is both a lack of standardized (measuring) methods and no scientific consensus on the potential health impacts of nano- and microplastic particles. Therefore, media reports about these particles in drinking water do nothing more than unnecessarily scare consumers." (With inputs from agencies)

Tens of thousands of invisible nanoplastic particles present in bottled water: Study

Billions of years ago when the Sun that lights up our Earth was a young star, the solar system as we know it today was just a large disk of rocky dust and gas. For millions of years, tiny dust particles coalesced together to become a few mile-sized 'planetesimals', the basic units that formed our Earth and the rest of the planets and their moons in our solar system.&nbsp;

Researchers have now found if these planetesimals contained water.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-first-ever-360-degree-camera-in-space-captures-breathtaking-visuals-of-earth-664942">PHOTOS | Earth looks unreal in images captured by first-ever 360-degree camera in space</a>

According to research conducted in the laboratory of Paul Asimow, Eleanor, and John R. McMillan, Professor of Geology and Geochemistry -- that &nbsp;appeared in the journal Nature Astronomy -- the ingredients for life, including water, &nbsp;may have been present in the seeds of rocky planets right from the start.

<h2>How was the study conducted?</h2>

The study combines meteorite data with thermodynamic modelling. It then determines whether the earliest solar system planetesimals were formed in the presence of water.&nbsp;

Researchers used samples of the solar system's earliest years in the form of iron meteorites.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Remains of an ancient planet lie deep within Earth

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These meteorites are the remnants of the metallic cores of the earliest planetesimals in our solar system that did not constitute the formation of any planet but ultimately fell on our planet.

<h2>What did the researchers find?</h2>

While the trace of water is long gone in the meteorites, it's the proportion of missing iron in the iron meteorites that shows if water existed in planetesimals.

The researchers found that those iron meteorites thought to be derived from the inner solar system had about the same amount of missing iron metal as meteorites derived from the outer solar system.&nbsp;

Therefore, the planetesimals from both groups of meteorites must have formed in a part of the solar system where water was present.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

If planetesimals were formed at Earth's current orbital position, water would have existed only if the inner solar system was much cooler than what we know of them.&nbsp;

"If water was present in the early building blocks of our planet, other important elements like carbon and nitrogen were likely present as well," Damanveer Grewal, a former Caltech postdoctoral scholar and first author of the study said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The ingredients for life may have been present in the seeds of rocky planets right from the start."

The paper is titled "Accretion of the earliest inner solar system planetesimals beyond the water-snowline."

&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)

Billions of years ago when the Sun that lights up our Earth was a young star, the solar system as we know it today was just a large disk of rocky dust and gas. For millions of years, tiny dust particles coalesced together to become a few mile-sized 'planetesimals', the basic units that formed our Earth and the rest of the planets and their moons in our solar system.

Billions of years ago when the Sun that lights up our Earth was a young star, the solar system as we know it today was just a large disk of rocky dust and gas. For millions of years, tiny dust particles coalesced together to become a few mile-sized 'planetesimals', the basic units that formed our Earth and the rest of the planets and their moons in our solar system. Researchers have now found if these planetesimals contained water. Also read | PHOTOS | Earth looks unreal in images captured by first-ever 360-degree camera in space According to research conducted in the laboratory of Paul Asimow, Eleanor, and John R. McMillan, Professor of Geology and Geochemistry -- that appeared in the journal Nature Astronomy -- the ingredients for life, including water, may have been present in the seeds of rocky planets right from the start. How was the study conducted? The study combines meteorite data with thermodynamic modelling. It then determines whether the earliest solar system planetesimals were formed in the presence of water. Researchers used samples of the solar system's earliest years in the form of iron meteorites. Also watch | Remains of an ancient planet lie deep within Earth × These meteorites are the remnants of the metallic cores of the earliest planetesimals in our solar system that did not constitute the formation of any planet but ultimately fell on our planet. What did the researchers find? While the trace of water is long gone in the meteorites, it's the proportion of missing iron in the iron meteorites that shows if water existed in planetesimals. The researchers found that those iron meteorites thought to be derived from the inner solar system had about the same amount of missing iron metal as meteorites derived from the outer solar system. Therefore, the planetesimals from both groups of meteorites must have formed in a part of the solar system where water was present. What does it mean? If planetesimals were formed at Earth's current orbital position, water would have existed only if the inner solar system was much cooler than what we know of them. "If water was present in the early building blocks of our planet, other important elements like carbon and nitrogen were likely present as well," Damanveer Grewal, a former Caltech postdoctoral scholar and first author of the study said in a statement. "The ingredients for life may have been present in the seeds of rocky planets right from the start." The paper is titled "Accretion of the earliest inner solar system planetesimals beyond the water-snowline." (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists discover water's existence in building blocks of solar system

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