Scarcity of water, methods of conservation-rain water harvesting and watershed management, ground water management

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Scarcity of water

Water scarcity is possibly to pose the greatest challenge on account of its increased demand coupled with shrinking supplies due to over utilisation and pollution. Water is a cyclic resource with abundant supplies on the globe. Approximately, 71 per cent of the earth’s surface is covered with it but fresh water constitutes only about 3 per cent of the total water. In fact, a very small proportion of fresh water is effectively available for human use. The availability of fresh water varies over space and time.

According to the United Nation Developement Program ,occurrence of water availability at about 1000 cubic meters per capita per annum is a commonly threshold for water indicating scarcity.

Krishna, Cauvery, Subernarekha, Pennar, Mahi, Sabarmati, Tapi, East Flowing Rivers and West Flowing Rivers of Kutch and Saurashtra including Luni are some of the basins, which fall below the 1000 cubic meter mark- out of which Cauvery, Pennar, Sabarmati and East Flowing rivers and West Flowing Rivers of Kutch and Saurashtra including Luni facing more acute water scarcity with per capita availability of water less than or around 500 cu m.

The need of the hour to change the condition of water scarity are as follows:-

The need to change Cropping patterns based on scientific advice,
use of drip and sprinkler Irrigation,
Fertigation for increasing water use efficiency,
community participation, especially Women, for better water management
Use of treated urban waste water to be used for farming in the adjoining areas
desilting of rivers
recharging of rivers,
check Dams and other water storage mechanisms.

Rain Water Harvesting

Rain water harvesting generally means collection of rain water. Its special meaning is a technique of recharging of underground water. In this technique water is made to go underground after collecting rain water locally, without polluting the same.

Rain water harvesting is a low cost and eco-friendly technique for preserving every drop of water by guiding the rain water to bore well, pits and wells. Rainwater harvesting increases water availability, checks the declining ground water table, improves the quality of groundwater through dilution of contaminants like fluoride and nitrates, prevents Soil erosion, and flooding and arrests salt water intrusion in coastal areas if used to recharge aquifers.

Rainwater is relatively clean and the quality is usually acceptable for many purposes with little or even no treatment. The physical and chemical properties of rainwater are usually superior to sources of groundwater that may have been subjected to contamination. Rainwater harvesting can co‐exist with and provide a good supplement to other water sources and utility systems, thus relieving pressure on other water sources. Rainwater harvesting provides a water supply buffer for use in times of emergency or breakdown of the public water supply systems, particularly during natural disasters.

Watershed Management

The term watershed refers to a “contiguous area draining into a single water body or a water course” or “it is a topographical area having a common drainage”. This means that the rainwater falling on an area coming within a ridgeline can be harvested and will flow out of this area thorough single point. Some refer it as a catchment area or river basin.

Watershed management is an efficient management and conservation of surface and groundwater Resources. It involves prevention of runoff and storage and recharge of groundwater through various methods like percolation tanks, recharge wells, etc. However, in broad sense watershed management includes conservation, regeneration and judicious use of all resources – natural (like land, water, Plants and animals) and human with in a watershed.

Integrated Watershed Management Programme is to restore the ecological balance by harnessing, conserving and developing degraded Natural Resources such as soil, vegetative cover and water. The outcomes are prevention of soil run-off, regeneration of natural vegetation, rain water harvesting and recharging of the ground water table. This enables multi-cropping and the introduction of diverse agro-based activities, which help to provide sustainable livelihoods to the people residing in the watershed area.

The main benefits of watershed management are:-

Supply of water for drinking and irrigation.
2. Increase in bio-diversity.
3. Loss of acidity in the soil and free for standing water.
4. Increase in the agricultural production and productivity.
5. Decrease in the cutting of forests.
6. Increase in the standard of living.
7. Increase in EMPLOYMENT.
8. Increase in personal get together by participation of local people.

Ground water management.

Scientific management of ground Water Resources involves a combination of

A) Supply side measures aimed at increasing extraction of ground water depending on its availability and
B) Demand side measures aimed at controlling, protecting and conserving available resources.

The rainfall occurrence in different parts of India is limited to a period ranging from about 10 to 100 days. The natural recharge to ground water reservoir is restricted to this period only and is not enough to keep pace with the excessive continued exploitation. Since large volumes of rainfall flows out into the sea or get evaporated, artificial recharge has been advocated to supplement the natural recharge.

Ground Water Resources Management requires to focus attention on the judicious utilization of the resources for ensuring their long-term sustainability. Ownership of ground water, need-based allocation pricing of resources, involvement of stake holders in various aspects of planning, execution and monitoring of projects and effective implementation of regulatory measures wherever necessary are the important considerations with regard to demand side ground water management.

Water is a precious resource that is essential for life. However, water scarcity is a growing problem around the world. According to the United Nations, more than 40% of the world’s Population will live in areas with severe water scarcity by 2030.

There are many reasons for water scarcity, including Climate change, population Growth, and unsustainable water use. Climate Change is causing changes in Precipitation patterns, which can lead to droughts in some areas and floods in others. Population Growth is putting a strain on water resources, as more people need water for drinking, bathing, cooking, and agriculture. Unsustainable water use, such as over-pumping of groundwater, can also lead to water scarcity.

Water scarcity can have a devastating impact on people’s lives. It can lead to food shortages, Malnutrition, and even death. It can also damage Ecosystems and make it difficult for people to live and work.

There are a number of things that can be done to address water scarcity. One important step is to conserve water. This can be done by taking shorter showers, fixing leaky faucets, and planting drought-tolerant plants. Another important step is to improve water efficiency. This can be done by using water-efficient appliances and fixtures, and by fixing leaks in water pipes.

It is also important to manage water resources sustainably. This includes protecting water quality, preventing Water Pollution, and restoring damaged ecosystems. It also includes developing new ways to collect and store water, such as rainwater harvesting and desalination.

Water scarcity is a serious problem, but it is one that can be solved. By taking action now, we can ensure that everyone has access to the water they need to survive and thrive.

Table of Contents

Rainwater harvesting

Rainwater harvesting is the collection of rainwater for reuse. It can be used for a variety of purposes, including watering crops, drinking water, and irrigation. Rainwater harvesting can be done on a small scale, such as collecting rainwater in barrels or cisterns, or on a large scale, such as building dams and reservoirs.

Rainwater harvesting has a number of benefits. It can help to reduce water pollution, as rainwater is naturally clean. It can also help to reduce water demand, as rainwater can be used to meet some of the water needs of a community. Rainwater harvesting can also help to improve water security, as it can provide a source of water during droughts.

There are a number of challenges associated with rainwater harvesting. One challenge is that rainwater is not always available. In some areas, there may be long periods of time without rain. Another challenge is that rainwater can be contaminated with pollutants, such as pesticides and Fertilizers. Rainwater harvesting systems must be designed to protect the rainwater from contamination.

Despite the challenges, rainwater harvesting is a valuable tool for water conservation. It can help to reduce water pollution, water demand, and water insecurity. Rainwater harvesting is a sustainable way to meet the water needs of a community.

Watershed management

Watershed management is the practice of managing land and water resources in a way that protects the watershed and its resources. A watershed is an area of land that drains into a common water body, such as a river, lake, or ocean. Watershed management includes activities such as:

Protecting forests and other natural areas that help to filter water and prevent erosion.
Managing land use to reduce runoff and pollution.
Conserving water and using it efficiently.
Restoring damaged watersheds.

Watershed management is important because it helps to protect water quality and quantity. It also helps to reduce flooding and improve the Health of ecosystems. Watershed management is a complex issue, but it is essential for ensuring the long-term health of our water resources.

Groundwater management

Groundwater management is the practice of managing groundwater resources in a way that ensures their sustainability. It includes activities such as:

Monitoring groundwater levels.
Regulating groundwater withdrawals.
Protecting groundwater quality.

Groundwater is a valuable resource that is essential for drinking water, irrigation, and Industry. However, groundwater is also vulnerable to depletion and contamination. Groundwater management is important for ensuring that groundwater resources are available for future generations.

Groundwater management can be challenging, as it requires balancing the needs of different users. However, it is essential for protecting this vital resource.

Scarcity of water

What is water scarcity?
Water scarcity is the lack of sufficient water resources to meet the demands of water usage within a region. It can be caused by climate change, population growth, and unsustainable water use.
What are the causes of water scarcity?
The main causes of water scarcity are climate change, population growth, and unsustainable water use. Climate change is causing more extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, which can disrupt water supplies. Population growth is putting a strain on water resources, as more people need water for drinking, bathing, cooking, and agriculture. Unsustainable water use, such as over-pumping groundwater, can also lead to water scarcity.
What are the effects of water scarcity?
Water scarcity can have a number of negative effects on human health, the Environment, and the economy. It can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and even death. It can also damage ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests. And it can hurt the economy by reducing agricultural production and tourism.
What are the solutions to water scarcity?
There are a number of solutions to water scarcity, including:
- Investing in water conservation and efficiency measures.
- Developing new water resources, such as desalination plants.
- Managing water resources more effectively.
- Raising awareness about the issue of water scarcity.

Methods of conservation-rain water harvesting and watershed management

What is rain water harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater for later use. It can be used for a variety of purposes, such as drinking, bathing, irrigation, and Livestock watering.
How does rainwater harvesting work?
Rainwater harvesting systems typically consist of a roof or other surface that collects the rainwater, a gutter or downspout that directs the water to a storage tank, and a pump or other device that delivers the water to the point of use.
What are the benefits of rainwater harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting has a number of benefits, including:
- It can provide a reliable source of water during droughts.
- It can reduce the demand for groundwater and surface water.
- It can help to improve water quality.
- It can save Money on water bills.
What are the challenges of rainwater harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting also has a number of challenges, including:
- It can be expensive to install a rainwater harvesting system.
- It can be difficult to maintain a rainwater harvesting system.
- Rainwater may not be available year-round.
- Rainwater may not be suitable for all uses, such as drinking.
What is watershed management?
Watershed management is the process of planning and implementing activities to protect and manage watersheds. A watershed is an area of land that drains into a common water body, such as a river, lake, or aquifer.
What are the benefits of watershed management?
Watershed management has a number of benefits, including:
- It can improve water quality.
- It can reduce flooding.
- It can protect fish and wildlife habitat.
- It can provide recreation opportunities.
- It can save money on water treatment costs.

Ground water management

What is ground water?
Ground water is water that is stored underground in aquifers. Aquifers are layers of rock or sand that can hold water.
What are the sources of ground water?
Ground water can be replenished by precipitation, such as rain and snow. It can also be replenished by surface water, such as rivers and lakes.
What are the uses of ground water?
Ground water is used for a variety of purposes, such as drinking, bathing, irrigation, and livestock watering.
What are the challenges of ground water management?
Ground water management is challenging because it is difficult to see and monitor. Ground water can also be contaminated by human activities, such as agriculture and industry.
What are the solutions to ground water management challenges?
There are a number of solutions to ground water management challenges, including:
- Protecting aquifers from contamination.
- Recharging aquifers.
- Conserving ground water.

Which of the following is not a method of water conservation?
(A) Rainwater harvesting
(B) Watershed management
(C) Groundwater management
(D) Water recycling
Which of the following is the most important factor in water conservation?
(A) Rainfall
(B) Evaporation
(C) Transpiration
(D) Infiltration
Which of the following is the most efficient way to conserve water?
(A) Taking shorter showers
(B) Fixing leaky faucets
(C) Watering plants in the morning or evening
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most common source of water for human consumption?
(A) Rainwater
(B) Groundwater
(C) Surface water
(D) Desalinated water
Which of the following is the most common cause of water pollution?
(A) Agriculture
(B) Industry
(C) Domestic sewage
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most effective way to treat water pollution?
(A) Aeration
(B) Filtration
(C) Disinfection
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most important factor in water management?
(A) Quantity
(B) Quality
(C) Distribution
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most efficient way to distribute water?
(A) Piped water
(B) Tanker water
(C) Rainwater harvesting
(D) Water recycling
Which of the following is the most important factor in water treatment?
(A) Removal of contaminants
(B) Disinfection
(C) pH adjustment
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most effective way to remove contaminants from water?
(A) Filtration
(B) Adsorption
(C) Ion exchange
(D) All of the above