Safe drinking water

Safe drinking water is the birthright of all humankind – as much a birthright as clean air.
The majority of the world’s Population, however, does not have access to safe drinking water. This is certainly true in most parts of Africa and Asia. Even in relatively advanced countries such as India, safe drinking water is not readily available, particularly in rural areas.
One reason safe drinking water is of paramount concern is that 75 percent of all diseases in developing countries arise from polluted drinking water.
Knowledge about how to make water safe for consumption is rare in most developing countries.
We simply must do a better job of raising public awareness and understanding about the nature of the problem and the technologies and strategies that are available to address it.

Background

Safe drinking water is a human birthright – as much a birthright as clean air. However, much of the world’s population does not have access to safe drinking water. Of the 6 billion people on earth, more than one billion (one in six) lack access to safe drinking water.
Moreover, about 2.5 billion (more than one in three) do not have access to adequate sanitation Services. Together, these shortcomings spawn waterborne diseases that kill on Average more than 6 million children each year (about 20,000 children a day). Water covers 70 percent of the globe’s surface, but most is saltwater.
Freshwater covers only 3 percent of the earth’s surface and much of it lies frozen in the Antarctic and Greenland polar ice.
Freshwater that is available for human consumption comes from rivers, lakes and underground sources and aquifers. Together these sources account for just 1 percent of all water on earth. Six billion people depend on this supply and a significant portion of the world’s population now face water shortages.

Ways to save and replenish

We must meet the world’s growing demand for freshwater.
However, we must do so with limited financial Resources and with practices that minimize ecological disruption.
An analysis of the situation suggests that our goals can be reached. Experts have proposed a four-fold path towards a viable solution for making water both potable and safe:
Seek new sources
Save and redistribute supplies
Reduce demand
Recycle
Some of these approaches are global in nature, while others are regional, national, local and even family-specific.
These efforts will ultimately succeed only when we empower people with the knowledge and means to address the issue on their own.

Individuals and communities Role in Safe Water

Efforts need not be left solely to governmental and nongovernmental agencies. Individuals, families and communities also have a vital role to play. Such responsibilities include:

Water harvesting at home, schools and community buildings
Water recycling at the microlevel, including at homes, buildings and communities
Saving water by ensuring taps and pipes are not leaky and by using optimum amounts of water for washing and toilet flushing
Making sure that the water is purified by methods suited to family conditions and needs
Maintaining proper levels of sanitation at home

Private Industry and nongovernmental organizations role in Safe Drinking Water SUpply

Many countries – for example, India, Indonesia, Kenya, and Nepal – have active nongovernmental organizations that involve communities in the funding and implementation of programmes designed to transform arid and semiarid terrains into productive agricultural regions receiving sufficient amounts of water. Such efforts should be expanded by:

Exchanging information among and between industry and nongovernmental organizations on relevant and novel methods and strategies
Focusing on sociological factors that may have an impact on the most suitable technologies and programmes for a given region/ community
Ensuring Equity in both services and benefits
Involving communities in all aspects of water harvesting, recycling, storage, purification and supply
Coordinating efforts among governmental and intergovernmental sectors for the purposes of achieving harmonious processes and results.

Various Initiatives by Ministry of Drinking Water

The National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP)

The National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) is a centrally sponsored scheme aimed at providing adequate and safe drinking water to the rural population of the country.
The NRDWP is a component of Bharat Nirman which focuses on the creation of rural Infrastructure-2/”>INFRASTRUCTURE.
This has resulted in the provision of significant additional resources to the sector and for creating an Environment for the development of infrastructure and capacities for the successful operation of drinking water supply schemes in rural areas.

Bharat Nirman

Bharat Nirman was launched by the Government of India in 2005 as a programme to build rural infrastructure.
While Phase-I of the programme was implemented in the period 2005-06 to 2008-09, the Phase-II was implemented from 2009-10 to 2011-12. Rural drinking water is one of the six components of Bharat Nirman.
Funds provided under the NRDWP are counted towards the Bharat Nirman also and no additional funds are provided under Bharat Nirman

Scheme for providing safe drinking water supply through community water purification Plants in fluoride, arsenic, uranium and other heavy/toxic metals and pesticide/fertilizer affected rural habitations in the country

The National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) funds for supplying “safe” water in contaminated areas are being utilized by the States as a policy mostly for alternate safe Piped Water Supply (PWS) schemes including Multivillage schemes (MVS) (i. e., from far away safe sources) the gestation period of such MVS projects is about 4-5 years.
Since the rural people cannot be put to risk due to consumption of unsafe drinking water in the interim period as also whereas all such Multi-Village Schemes carrying safe water from far away sources cannot be planned and completed in the span of 4-5 years due to huge funds involved, hence, the Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation has submitted an EFC proposal to provide community water purification plants in fluoride, arsenic, uranium and other heavy/toxic metals and pesticide/fertilizer affected rural habitations in the country for providing safe drinking water immediately with an anticipated expenditure of total capital cost of Rs 3,600 crore with fund sharing pattern of 75:25 (90:10 in case of NE, J&K) between Centre and State in approx 20,000 habitations during the period 2014-15 to 2016-17.

Combined Water Supply Schemes (CWSS)

Combined Water Supply Schemes are being implemented where more than one local body, either rural or urban with a common source of water supply is involved with financial assistance under the Minimum Needs Programme, National Rural Drinking Water Programme and with funding from financial institutions like TUFIDCO, TNUIFSL, NABARD and Asian Development Bank.
During 2009 – 10 combined water supply schemes have been completed to benefit 4352 rural habitations and 41 towns at a cost of Rs. 795.04 crores. Presently Board is maintaining 422 CWSS in the state to serve 10,101 habitations benefiting populations of 131.59 lakhs which is about 20 percent of the state population

Safe drinking water is essential for human Health and well-being. It is used for drinking, cooking, cleaning, and many other purposes. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to safe drinking water. According to the World Health Organization, over 785 million people do not have access to basic drinking water services. This lack of access can lead to a number of health problems, including diarrhea, cholera, typhoid, and dysentery.

There are a number of factors that can contribute to waterborne diseases. These include:

Contaminated water sources: Water can become contaminated with bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemicals from a variety of sources, including sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste.
Poor sanitation: Poor sanitation practices, such as open defecation and lack of handwashing, can also contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases.
Climate change: Climate Change is leading to more extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, which can contaminate water supplies.

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent waterborne diseases. These include:

Access to safe drinking water: Everyone should have access to safe drinking water. This can be achieved through a variety of means, such as building water treatment plants, improving water distribution systems, and providing water filters to households.
Improved sanitation: Improved sanitation practices, such as handwashing and using toilets, can help to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases.
Climate change adaptation: Climate change adaptation measures, such as building flood defenses and drought-resistant crops, can help to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.

Waterborne diseases are a serious problem that can have a devastating impact on human health and well-being. However, there are a number of things that can be done to prevent these diseases. By providing everyone with access to safe drinking water and improving sanitation practices, we can help to protect people from the dangers of waterborne diseases.

In addition to the subtopics listed above, here are some other important concepts related to safe drinking water:

Water quality standards: Water quality standards are regulations that set limits on the levels of contaminants that are allowed in drinking water. These standards are designed to protect human health.
Water conservation: Water conservation is the practice of using water more efficiently. This can be done by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and planting drought-tolerant plants.
Water distribution: Water distribution is the process of getting water from its source to the point of use. This can be done through a variety of means, such as pipelines, canals, and aqueducts.
Water sanitation: Water sanitation is the process of making water safe to drink. This can be done through a variety of means, such as filtration, disinfection, and chlorination.
Water access: Water access is the ability to obtain safe and affordable drinking water. This is a major issue in many parts of the world, where people do not have access to clean water or the means to pay for it.
Water pricing: Water pricing is the process of setting prices for water. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as through volumetric pricing, flat rates, or tiered rates.
Water management: Water management is the process of planning, developing, and operating Water Resources. This includes activities such as water conservation, water distribution, and water sanitation.
Water policy: Water policy is a set of laws, regulations, and plans that govern the management of water resources. Water policy is developed at the local, state, and federal levels.
Water research: Water research is the study of water and its properties. This includes research on water quality, water treatment, and water management.
Water Education: Water education is the process of teaching people about water and its importance. This can be done through formal education, such as in schools, or through informal education, such as through public awareness campaigns.
Water advocacy: Water advocacy is the act of speaking out in support of water resources and water management. This can be done through a variety of means, such as lobbying, public speaking, and writing letters to elected officials.
Water awareness: Water awareness is the understanding of the importance of water and the need to conserve it. This can be raised through education, advocacy, and other means.
Water stewardship: Water stewardship is the responsible management of water resources. This includes activities such as water conservation, water protection, and water restoration.

Water is a precious resource that we all depend on. By understanding the issues related to safe drinking water, we can all play a role in protecting this vital resource.

What is the difference between tap water and bottled water?

Tap water is water that comes from a public water supply, while bottled water is water that is packaged in bottles and sold commercially. Tap water is typically treated to remove contaminants, while bottled water may or may not be treated.

Is tap water safe to drink?

In the United States, tap water is generally considered safe to drink. However, there are some potential contaminants that can be found in tap water, such as lead, mercury, and pesticides. If you are concerned about the safety of your tap water, you can have it tested by a certified laboratory.

What are the benefits of drinking bottled water?

Some people believe that bottled water is safer than tap water, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Bottled water may be more convenient than tap water, but it is also more expensive.

What are the drawbacks of drinking bottled water?

Bottled water is often more expensive than tap water, and it can also be more environmentally harmful. The production and disposal of plastic bottles can contribute to pollution.

What are the alternatives to drinking bottled water?

You can use a water filter to improve the quality of your tap water, or you can drink filtered or boiled tap water. You can also drink water from a reusable water bottle.

What is the best way to store bottled water?

Bottled water should be stored in a cool, dark place. It is important to keep the bottles sealed to prevent contamination.

How long does bottled water last?

Bottled water can last for several months or even years if it is stored properly. However, it is important to check the expiration date on the bottle before drinking the water.

What should I do if I have a question about bottled water?

If you have a question about bottled water, you can contact the manufacturer of the water or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Which of the following is not a source of Water Pollution?
(A) Sewage
(B) Industrial waste
(C) Rainwater
(D) Agricultural runoff
Which of the following is the most common type of water pollution?
(A) Biological pollution
(B) Chemical pollution
(C) Physical pollution
(D) Radiological pollution
Which of the following is the best way to prevent water pollution?
(A) Reduce, reuse, and recycle
(B) Use less water
(C) Dispose of waste properly
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most important factor in determining the quality of drinking water?
(A) The source of the water
(B) The treatment process
(C) The distribution system
(D) The consumer’s habits
Which of the following is the most common waterborne disease?
(A) Cholera
(B) Dysentery
(C) Typhoid fever
(D) Hepatitis A
Which of the following is the best way to treat waterborne diseases?
(A) Drink bottled water
(B) Boil water
(C) Use a filter
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most important thing to do to protect yourself from waterborne diseases?
(A) Wash your hands often
(B) Cook food thoroughly
(C) Avoid contact with contaminated water
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the best way to conserve water?
(A) Take shorter showers
(B) Turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth
(C) Fix any leaks in your home
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the best way to recycle water?
(A) Use graywater for Irrigation
(B) Collect rainwater
(C) Use water-saving appliances
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the best way to reduce your water footprint?
(A) Take shorter showers
(B) Turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth
(C) Fix any leaks in your home
(D) All of the above

Answers:
1. (C)
2. (B)
3. (D)
4. (A)
5. (A)
6. (B)
7. (D)
8. (D)
9. (D)
10. (D)