​There is an increased level of talk about the water crisis in the country along with the global water crisis.  Why such talk?  It is said that there is a water crisis in the country, as we are not able to fulfill the present and future water needs of the country.  Some attribute this to the reduced availability of the water in the country. Is it a correct statement? No, by all accounts, the total water availability has not declined over time, which is attested by the recent study carried out by Central Water Commission- CWC in this regard. 

So what is this crisis all about.  It is due to our inability to develop our water resources as per the present and future requirement.  In addition, there is a lack of effective and efficient management adding to the problem.  The latter is more serious and requires greater attention. The likely impact of climate change on water resources adds another challenge to the existing ones.

The broad water resources scenario of the country is characterized by reducing per capita water availability due to increasing population which is likely to stabilize around 150-160 crore by 2050, increasing demand for various uses like irrigation, domestic, industrial, ecological etc. The per capita water storage capacity in the country is very low as compared to some other countries like China and USA.  Presently the per capita storage in India is about 200 cu.m. as compared to 1100 cu.m.in China ,1900 cu.m. in USA, 3100 cu.m. in Brazil and 4700 cu.m. in Australia.   The total water storage capacity created in the country through various types of projects is around 253 billion cubic meters (BCM) while 50 BCM is under execution.  Thus, it needs to be enhanced appropriately to cater to various water requirements.  We have the problem of drought in some areas while having to face floods in some other regions.  The over exploitation of ground water or rather is improper management is another factor which is adding to the problem.​

(Read more in the thread below)