World Water Day: While population growth and reckless urbanisation hurtle India towards a water crisis, experts highlight the importance of water security in preventing conflict and promoting cooperation
India, with its growing population, faces a major water crisis. Its projected population of two billion by 2050 will have access to only 4 percent of the world's freshwater resources. Climate change, indiscriminate urbanisation, and population growth are expected to further exacerbate the situation.
Water scarcity can lead to violence. It is only apt that the theme the World Water Day, which falls today, is “leveraging water for peace”. A recent study found that water-related conflicts resulted in around 300 murders in India between 2019 and 2021. Disputes over access to water are likely to increase due to population growth, economic development, and climate change.
Experts emphasise the need for cooperation in managing water resources. Dr. Sharachchandra Lele, Distinguished Fellow, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, says that a lack of transparency and equitable distribution of water can lead to social conflicts. He says, "A water crisis results in social conflicts when those responsible for water supply have poor reach into the most water-poor neighbourhoods to begin with, and completely fail to respond when the scarcity reaches crisis proportions.” He adds, “Public agencies charged with water supply must meet the needs of all citizens equitably, and invest in building trust through an approach that is integrated across water, people-centric in outlook, and transparent and participatory in functioning.”
India has undertaken various initiatives to address water and sanitation issues. The Swachh Bharat Mission has made significant progress in constructing toilets and improving sanitation in rural and urban areas. However, challenges remain in providing safe drinking water to all citizens.
The United Nations stresses that water cooperation can create a positive ripple effect. By working together across borders and sectors to manage water resources, countries can achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to food security, healthy ecosystems, disaster risk reduction, climate change resilience, and overall well-being.
Anshuman, Director of the Water Resources Division at TERI, emphasises that water is central to economies, health, livelihoods, and societal stability. He says, “Human civilizations developed around water; however, growing scarcity, competing demand, and inequitable access, compounded by pollution and inefficient use, have significant potential to fuel uncivilised conflicts between communities, states and nations. Being at the core of environment, sustainable development as well as human survival, it is imperative to address the water challenges through collaboration, knowledge sharing, capacity building and mutual cooperation. This is not only vital for enhancing efficient and sustainable water use but also to promote peace and stability within society."
This World Water Day reminds us that water is a shared resource and that cooperation is essential for ensuring water security and promoting peace for all.