Water: A Priceless Resource Turned Commodity

Water, once considered a free and abundant gift from nature, is becoming one of the most precious resources of our time. Growing up in Sri Lanka, we were blessed with ample water resources. It was so abundant that many of us never paused to think about its value. Yet, even within our country, certain regions face scarcity—a stark reminder that water is not infinite.

Globally, the situation is even more alarming. Many nations grapple with severe water shortages, and this essential resource is increasingly being commodified. Twenty years ago, in Sri Lanka, water was not seen as a critical commodity. Today, its importance has grown, and in the next two decades, we may witness water traded globally like fuel.

Our ancestors understood its value well. Ancient Sri Lankan kings adopted a visionary approach, ensuring that not a single drop of water flowed into the sea without being put to use. They built reservoirs and irrigation systems that still stand as marvels of sustainable water management.

As we navigate a world where water scarcity looms large, we must adopt a similar mindset. Protecting, conserving, and managing water resources is no longer an option but an obligation. Let us value this precious gift, for it sustains life, fuels economies, and defines the future of our planet.

Water is invaluable today, and it will be indispensable tomorrow. Are we ready to rise to the challenge?