Climate Change & Water: Moving from risk to resilience for a water-secure future

Climate change is a universally observed and accepted fact. GoI and private sector have been doing their bit to arrest and reverse environmental degradation and climate change. However, rapid urbanization and industrialization are somehow neutralizing the effects of the efforts. Climate change has been taking a toll on the country’s weather patterns, which in turn is impacting agriculture, human life, industries, and bio-diversity.

One of the most severe and immediate effects of climate change can be seen on the availability of water. Every year the water supply infrastructure in the country is expanding under Jal Jeevan Mission, however, the water sources are shrinking. This situation is leading India towards a potential water crisis that will have serious implications for the nation both on economic and social levels.

Understanding the ground reality

Monsoon season see heavy to very heavy rainfall across most parts of the nation. Heavy downpour causes flooding of rivers and cities resulting in enormous loss of life and property in several parts. There are regions where flood situation is perennial across many years. On the other hand, during the other seasons, most of the places in the country suffer from acute shortage of water supply. According to the data from the Indian government, 22 out of 32 major cities continuously suffer from the water crisis. A few years ago, in places like Shimla, the locals were urging the tourists not to come to their city due to the water crisis. This is a serious matter for a place that is heavily dependent on tourism for its economic sustenance.

Climate change has made the matters worse for the country. Various trends suggest that the amount of rainfall in the country is rather constant, however, the number of rainy days has decreased. This means a heavier downpour on fewer rainy days. More water in less time causes floods, water-run off, soil erosion, and various other problems.

In India, traditional water conservation techniques have not received the due attention that it should have. The increasing urban population and the demand for household water, drinking and sanitation services have been exerting tremendous pressure on water infrastructure.

Moving towards a water-secure future

As the urban population in country is rapidly growing and according to the UN, 41% of India’s population will be living in cities by 2030; it is most logical to focus on urban planning and infrastructure to counter the impact of climate change and address the issues of water crisis. India is in the process of developing 100 smart cities. Resource conservation is one of the most important features of a smart city. Proper urban planning can play a significant role in water conservation and enhance water security in cities.

Blue and Green infrastructure

The inclusion of blue and green infrastructure in urban planning can do wonders for water security. Green infrastructure not only helps in countering pollution but it also provides permeable surfaces for the rainwater to seep into the ground. It also helps in reducing the flow of the stormwater. Similarly, the blue infrastructure helps in storing the stormwater for periods of scarcity. Further, it assists in replenishment of the groundwater and prevents floods downstream.

Focus on rainwater harvesting

Storing and conserving rainwater is one of the most effective means of solving the water crisis. Many cities like Delhi and Chennai have clearly stated government policies for rainwater conservation. However, the adoption and implementation of these policies are very low. Urban planners need to focus on provisions of roof-top water collection systems and infrastructure to carry this water to recharge groundwater and replenish water bodies.

Rehabilitation of water bodies

In urban India, thousands of water bodies have either perished or are severely endangered. Many water bodies have gradually been converted into garbage dumping sites. Rehabilitation of such water bodies can be a game changer for water security. These water bodies will not only store the stormwater and help in uplifting the water table but will also support local flora and fauna. More greenery, means lesser pollution, reduced environmental degradation, and improved climatic conditions.

Recycling of water

Not only it will help solve the water problem, but also will help in reducing the pollution in the water bodies and underground water. The GoI has policies and provisions for effluent treatment and water recycling. However, due to the sheer volume of wastewater coming from the Indian cities and the huge amount of electricity required for effluent treatment, water recycling in the country has not really been huge success so far. Urban planners need to devise ways of reducing the load on the water recycling facilities and create infrastructure for recycling the wastewater at the source.

Awareness

Government and industry can make the best policies and invest millions in creating blue & green infrastructure, water harvesting, replenishment, and recycling; however real success cannot be achieved without the participation of the general public. Spreading awareness regarding water conservation, water harvesting, and the role of the general public in solving the water crisis should be an important aspect of urban administration.?