South India's Deepening Water Crisis: A Multifaceted Challenge

Current Water Levels: Reservoirs in South India are filled to only 23% of their holding capacity, significantly lower than the decadal average.
El Niño's Impact: The ongoing El Niño event, one of the strongest recorded, contributes to erratic monsoon patterns, exacerbating water scarcity.
Record Heat: Following the warmest year on record in 2023, predictions indicate a high likelihood of continued temperature records being broken through 2026.
Additional Stressors: The general election will see increased outdoor activity, adding to the demand on already scarce water resources.
Policy and Preparedness Gap: Despite previous crises, improvements in policy and forecasting have not translated into effective on-the-ground implementation or preparedness.
Persistent Issues: Unplanned urban growth, over-extraction of groundwater, low water reuse efficiency, and degradation of catchment areas continue to undermine water security.

Climate Change and Socio-economic Impact: Climate change intensifies the frequency and co-occurrence of crises (e.g., droughts and disease outbreaks), disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries and marginalised communities.
Compounded Crises: Water scarcity not only stands as a crisis on its own but also aggravates other socio-economic challenges, highlighting the need for comprehensive and proactive responses.
Governmental Responsibility: The recurring nature of water crises underscores a lack of effective learning and action from governments, necessitating a shift towards more sustainable and inclusive water management practices.

Reason it's important : Compounding crises : Water deficit worsens other adverse events for the poor

Published in : The Hindu

Date appeared in newspaper : 01 April 2024

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