Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction (Approx. 40-50 words)

Start by highlighting the significance of water scarcity in India’s major cities. Briefly mention the looming threat of water shortages as per reports from credible sources like the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). Acknowledge the urgency of addressing this issue due to increasing urbanization, population growth, and environmental changes.Fact: According to NIDM, many Indian cities face acute water shortages, with over 25% gap between demand and supply. By 2050, at least 30 cities will face grave water risks (WWF).

2. Causes of Water Crisis (Approx. 150-170 words)

• • Rising Encroachments
    Explain how urban sprawl and encroachments on water bodies, such as wetlands and lakes, aggravate water shortages. Use specific examples like Chennai’s Pallikaranai wetlands shrinking from 15,000 acres in 1954 to 1,500 acres in 2016.
  • Increased Concretisation
    Discuss how the widespread use of concrete and asphalt prevents natural water recharge. Use Bengaluru’s transformation from 8% built-up area in 1973 to 93.3% in 2023 as an example to highlight the impact on groundwater recharge.
  • Overexploitation of Groundwater
    Mention how the overuse of groundwater in cities like Chennai, where 127.5% of the groundwater was extracted in 2023, worsens the crisis.
  • Erratic Rainfall
    Explain the impact of erratic and inconsistent rainfall patterns on water availability, using Bengaluru’s weakened monsoon patterns and stressed groundwater levels as an example.
  • Lack of Sewage Treatment
    Discuss how untreated sewage pollutes water bodies. For example, Mumbai generates 3,000 MLD of sewage but only treats 2,100 MLD, worsening water contamination.

3. Recommendations (Approx. 100-120 words)

• • Integrated Water Management
    Suggest restoring lakes, ponds, and wetlands, desilting water bodies, and encouraging rainwater harvesting systems. This will improve water storage and groundwater recharge.
  • Decentralized Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs)
    Recommend the establishment of decentralized sewage treatment plants with proper financing, design optimization, and enforcement of standards to reduce water contamination.
  • Adoption of Water-Saving Technologies
    Encourage the use of water-efficient devices, such as low-flow showerheads and smart meters, to reduce consumption.

4. Conclusion (Approx. 30-40 words)

• Conclude by emphasizing the need for urgent action and a multi-pronged approach to address the water crisis. Acknowledge that addressing the issue is crucial for the sustainability of urban areas and the well-being of future generations.

Relevant Facts for the Answer:

1. National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM):
   • Many cities are facing acute water shortages with more than 25% gap in demand and supply.
   • By 2050, at least 30 Indian cities will experience severe water risks.
2. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF):
   • Water crises in cities like Chennai and Bengaluru are expected to worsen, as per long-term predictions (2050).
3. Indian Institute of Science:
   • Bengaluru’s built-up area expanded from 8% in 1973 to 93.3% in 2023, significantly reducing groundwater recharge.
4. Groundwater Extraction Statistics (Chennai):
   • In 2023, Chennai extracted 127.5% of its groundwater, against the national average of 59.3%.
5. Mumbai Sewage Data:
   • Mumbai generates 3,000 million liters per day (MLD) of sewage, but only 2,100 MLD gets treated.