Water Crisis Archives - Lokmarg

Manish Saxena, who heads the resident body of high-rise township Arihant Ambience, warns about the depleting groundwater table and its ecological consequences

I seek to address a critical issue that has profoundly impacted our high-rise community: the severe water shortage caused by the lack of piped water supply and the resulting over-reliance on groundwater. This problem has led to an alarming depletion of groundwater over the past decade, a situation starkly highlighted by recent data from the National Compilation on Dynamic Ground Water Resources of India, 2023.

The Central Ground Water Board’s report reveals that Ghaziabad extracted 123% of its total groundwater last year. This rate of extraction is higher than the 75 other districts in the state, underscoring the severity of our situation. Our dependency on groundwater is unsustainable and has led to dire consequences for our community and environment.

In the high-rise residential areas of Greater Noida West, renowned housing societies are already facing acute water shortages. It is not uncommon to see residents queuing up to collect water from tankers, a sight that is both disheartening and indicative of a deeper crisis. These tanker services, while temporarily alleviating the immediate water needs, are not a viable long-term solution and add to the financial burden on our residents.

The excessive groundwater extraction has resulted in a significant drop in the water table, making it increasingly difficult and expensive to access water. Borewells, once sufficient at 100 feet, now require drilling to depths of over 500 feet. This not only escalates costs but also raises the risk of accessing contaminated water, which can have serious health implications.

ALSO READ: ‘We Have Turned A Blind Eye To Looming Water Crisis’

In addition, the environmental impact of this groundwater depletion is worrisome. The over-extraction disrupts natural hydrological cycles, adversely affecting nearby rivers, lakes, and wetlands. This ecological imbalance harms local biodiversity and diminishes the natural beauty and health of our environment.

Socially, the water scarcity has strained our community. Disputes over water allocation have become frequent, and the stress of uncertain water supply affects the quality of life and community harmony. Our children grow up in an environment where water conservation is not just a lesson but a necessity, overshadowing their formative years with concerns about basic resources.

To address this crisis, we have implemented several initiatives. Water-saving measures, such as installing low-flow fixtures, promoting rainwater harvesting, and recycling greywater, are in place. However, these measures alone are insufficient to resolve the root issue: the lack of a reliable piped water supply.

We have consistently engaged with municipal authorities, urging them to restore and improve the piped water infrastructure. Despite receiving assurances, concrete actions are still lacking. It is imperative that the government recognizes the gravity of this issue and invests in sustainable water management solutions, including repairing and expanding the existing water supply network and enforcing regulations to prevent illegal water extraction.

Fostering a culture of water conservation within our community is crucial. Educational campaigns, workshops, and incentives for water-saving behaviors can significantly change mindsets and habits. Collaboration with neighboring communities is also vital to advocate for regional solutions, understanding that water management is a collective responsibility.

In conclusion, the water crisis in our high-rise community is a pressing issue that demands immediate and concerted action. By working together, both within our community and with external stakeholders, we can address the challenges of groundwater depletion and ensure a sustainable water future for ourselves and future generations.

As told to Deepti Sharma

Praveen Antal, a resident of high-rise housing society Saviour Greenisle in Ghaziabad, says it is our collective responsibility to restore the depleting groundwater table. His views:

As I wake up each morning in my high-rise apartment, nestled amidst the bustling cityscape, I can’t help but ponder over a looming crisis that seems to be inching closer with each passing day – the depletion of groundwater. What once was a distant concern has now become a stark reality, casting shadows over our daily lives and the sustainability of our community. Bengaluru saw it recently, other cities will witness it in not-so-distant future.

The tale of reduced water supply is not new to us apartment residents. With nearby canals failing to provide the much-needed water, we have turned to groundwater as our primary source. Initially, it seemed like a convenient solution, but little did we realize the consequences it would entail. As more and more high-rise structures sprung up around us, the demand for water surged, exacerbating the strain on our already depleting groundwater reservoirs.

The signs of distress are unmistakable. Water levels in our bore-wells are plummeting at an alarming rate, mirroring the depth of our worries. Once a reliable source of water, it has now become a testament to the unsustainable practices that pervade our modern lifestyles. As a resident, it’s disheartening to witness the gradual disappearance of something as vital as water, a resource we often take for granted until it starts slipping through our fingers.

The repercussions of this water crisis are far-reaching, extending beyond the confines of our apartment walls. Our surrounding ecosystem bears the brunt of our unchecked consumption, with parched landscapes and dwindling vegetation serving as poignant reminders of our collective negligence. The delicate balance of nature is being disrupted, and we, as residents, find ourselves grappling with the repercussions of our actions.

ALSO READ: ‘Bengaluru Water Crisis Is A Warning For Other Metros’

In the face of such adversity, it’s imperative that we, as a community, come together to address this pressing issue. We cannot afford to be mere spectators to our own downfall. Instead, we must take proactive steps to conserve water and alleviate the strain on our dwindling groundwater reserves.

One crucial aspect of tackling this crisis is the adoption of sustainable water management practices within our apartment complexes. From rainwater harvesting to recycling wastewater, there are numerous measures we can implement to reduce our water footprint and promote responsible usage. By embracing these practices, we not only mitigate the impact of our water consumption but also pave the way for a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Furthermore, we must advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement mechanisms to curb the indiscriminate exploitation of groundwater. It’s high time we hold ourselves accountable for our actions and work towards preserving this precious resource for future generations. After all, water is not just a commodity; it’s a fundamental right that should be safeguarded and cherished by all.

As I gaze out from my apartment window, I’m reminded of the interconnectedness of our actions and the profound impact they have on the world around us. The journey towards water conservation may be fraught with challenges, but it’s a journey we must embark on together if we are to secure a sustainable future for ourselves and the generations yet to come. In the end, it’s not just about preserving water; it’s about preserving life itself.

As told to Deepti Sharma

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Tag: Water Crisis

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