Latest water crisis News | Top water crisis News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking water crisis News Today | English water crisis News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Gaza’s Water Crisis Deepens: Residents Struggle For Survival Amid Ceasefire

February 15, 2025, 1:04 am

A ceasefire has enabled some of the displaced Gazans to come back to their ruins, but many are now confronted with an acute water crisis on top of the war’s tribulations.

Bassel Rajab, a 50-year-old farmer from Beit Lahiya, painted the desperate picture upon his return. “There are no wells, no pumps—nothing. We pitched tents to live in, but no water. We are suffering,” he explained. In an attempt to find clean water, Rajab will occasionally walk 16 kilometers to Gaza City just to shower.

Water shortages have increased as infrastructure lies in shambles. Most residents depend on improvised wells along the sea or polluted water from Gaza’s sole aquifer, which has been penetrated by seawater and sewage. The Palestinian Water Authority reports that 208 of 306 wells were taken out of commission during the war, and 39 others are partially operational.

Beit Lahiya mayor Alaa Al-Attar blamed Israel for preventing the entry of essential equipment needed to repair and drill wells. “We are trying to establish new wells, but we lack the necessary tools and generators,” he said. Meanwhile, Israel’s military branch coordinating humanitarian efforts, COGAT, stated that it has worked with international organizations to repair water lines, including in northern Gaza.

The conflict has left the Gazans with deprivations of water, food, fuel, and medicine. The violence began when Hamas-led militants fired on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 and capturing over 250 hostages. Retaliating, Israel’s military campaign has killed more than 48,000 Palestinians, Gaza’s health authorities say.

Citizens such as Youssef Kallab find it difficult to lift heavy water canisters to their rooftops, as the municipal supplies reach them only once every three days. Twelve-year-old Mohammed Al-Khatib pulls water in a cart for kilometers, and supermarket owner Mohammed Nassar, who has an illness, walks miles to fill up buckets. “We have no other choice, so we bear the pain,” he said.

Water Crisis Threatens 50% of Global Food Production: WATCH

October 18, 2024, 4:40 pm

A new report from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water reveals that for the first time in recorded history, the global water cycle is experiencing severe stress. This alarming situation is attributed to a combination of human activities and climate change, highlighting the urgent need for action.

The Dire State of Freshwater Resources

The report underscores decades of mismanagement and the undervaluation of water resources worldwide, which have led to significant damage to freshwater ecosystems and ongoing contamination of vital water sources. Johan Rockstrom, co-chair of the commission and one of the report’s authors, emphasizes, “For the first time in human history, we are pushing the global water cycle out of balance. Precipitation, the source of all freshwater, can no longer be relied upon.”

WATCH THE VIDEO:

The natural water cycle, which is essential for sustaining life, involves the continuous movement of water between the earth and the atmosphere. However, disruptions to this delicate balance are being felt globally, impacting billions of lives.

A Global Crisis in Water Availability

The report highlights that nearly 3 billion people and over half of the world’s food production are located in regions projected to see a decline in total water storage. This situation is expected to worsen, with the report warning that more than 50% of the world’s food production is at risk. Economic impacts could be profound, with countries potentially losing an average of 8% of their GDP by 2050, and poorer nations facing losses of up to 15%.

The Importance of Blue and Green Water

The commission distinguishes between “blue water,” which includes liquid found in lakes, rivers, and aquifers, and “green water,” the moisture held in plants and soils. While blue water has historically been the focus of water management strategies, the report emphasizes that green water is equally crucial, contributing to about half of all rainfall on land through plant transpiration.

The Climate Crisis Connection

The report also links disruptions in the water cycle to the accelerating climate crisis. The loss of critical ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests, which serve as carbon sinks, exacerbates global warming. This process leads to drier landscapes and an increased risk of wildfires, further damaging the environment.

Water Needs Exceed Basic Survival

One of the most striking findings of the report is the amount of water necessary for a dignified life. It estimates that individuals require around 4,000 liters of water daily to maintain a decent standard of living—significantly more than the 50 to 100 liters considered essential for basic survival by the United Nations.

Urgent Recommendations for Sustainable Water Use

Professor Richard Allan, a climate scientist at the University of Reading, warns that the report presents “a grim picture of human-caused disruption to the global water cycle, the most precious natural resource that ultimately sustains our livelihoods.”

In light of these findings, the commission calls for a reform in the economic approach to water management. It urges governments to adopt policies promoting sustainable use, including better pricing strategies that reflect water scarcity and discourage wasteful practices. Examples include avoiding the cultivation of water-intensive crops in drought-prone areas and reconsidering the establishment of data centers in regions already facing water stress.

The findings of the Global Commission on the Economics of Water serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the global water crisis. By recognizing the importance of both blue and green water and implementing sustainable practices, it may be possible to restore balance to the water cycle and secure a more sustainable future for all.

Central Water Commission’s Latest Report Reveals Critical Water Level Crisis!

July 12, 2024, 4:59 pm

As per the latest report from India’s Central Water Commission(CWC),India faces water crisis. Water storage levels across the country’s reservoirs are reportedly concerning. Despite their large storage capacity, the current data reveals a decrease in stored water compared to previous years, reflecting the impacts of fluctuating water management practices.

As of the latest update, the total live storage in India’s reservoirs is 46.311 billion cubic meters (BCM), which is just 26% of their total capacity. This figure represents a decline from the 58.864 BCM recorded during the same period last year, as highlighted in the CWC’s recent bulletin. The comparison shows a decline in available water resources, proving challenges for agricultural irrigation and daily water needs.

The decline in water storage levels is not only a consequence of natural factors like rainfall but also reflects the effectiveness of water management strategies implemented across the nation. These strategies are crucial for optimizing water usage and maintaining reservoir capacities and are pivotal in ensuring sustainable water availability across different regions.

In northern India, encompassing states such as Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan, the impact of dwindling reservoir levels is particularly pronounced. These states, known for their agricultural productivity, face heightened challenges in water management as the available storage falls short of anticipated needs.

The CWC’s ongoing monitoring and regular updates provide critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders involved in water resource management. This data-driven approach enables informed decision-making to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity, ensuring equitable distribution and sustainable utilization of water resources nationwide.

Addressing these challenges requires concerted efforts in water conservation, efficient irrigation practices, and infrastructure development to enhance storage capacities. By prioritizing water management strategies aligned with current data insights, India can better navigate future water challenges and safeguard essential agricultural and domestic water supply needs.

BJP Protest Against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal Over Water Crisis

June 27, 2024, 3:09 pm

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) councillors protested against Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) house over the ongoing water crisis in the capital. Delhi Mayor Shelly Oberoi accused BJP councillors of disrupting House proceedings, noting that the session, intended for discussing monsoon preparations and drain cleaning, was affected.

BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri led a demonstration with party workers regarding the water shortage. Meanwhile, residents of Okhla Phase 2 and Kusumpur Pahari received water supply through tankers, offering some relief. However, locals reported ongoing issues with dirty tap water and inconsistent supply.

Virendra Pandit, a resident, mentioned, “There is a slight improvement in water supply, but the crisis persists. We have been receiving dirty water through taps for the past few years, so we aren’t using it.”

In another development, AAP Minister Atishi, who began a hunger strike on June 22 demanding Haryana release Delhi’s water share, was hospitalized due to deteriorating health. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav visited Atishi at Lok Nayak Hospital, where she was admitted to the ICU.

AAP alleges that Haryana is providing Delhi with 100 million gallons per day less water than agreed, affecting 28 lakh residents. Despite recent rainfall offering temporary respite, the water crisis remains a critical concern.

Earlier, AAP leader Sanjay Singh announced the end of Atishi’s hunger strike but pledged to continue raising the issue in Parliament and appealed to the Prime Minister to address Delhi’s water needs.

AAP’s Atishi Hospitalised Due to Health Deterioration During Hunger Strike

June 25, 2024, 5:15 am

Delhi Minister Atishi has been hospitalized following a deterioration in her health due to an indefinite hunger strike protesting against the Haryana government for not releasing 100 million gallons per day (MGD) of water to Delhi, causing a water crisis. She was admitted to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash (LNJP) Hospital early Tuesday morning.

#WATCH | Delhi Water Minister Atishi being taken to LNJP hospital due to deteriorating health.

Atishi has been on an indefinite hunger strike since the last four days claiming that Haryana is not releasing Delhi's share of water. pic.twitter.com/BZtG4o9ThS

— ANI (@ANI) June 24, 2024

Atishi’s hunger strike, which began on June 22, entered its fifth day on Tuesday. She claims Haryana is withholding Delhi’s rightful share of water. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) stated that doctors advised hospitalization due to her dangerously low blood pressure and sugar levels.

Atishi vowed to continue her hunger strike until Haryana releases Delhi’s water share and opens the gates of Hathnikund Barrage. The AAP alleges Haryana’s reduction in water supply by 100 MGD has severely impacted 28 lakh residents in Delhi, exacerbating the water shortage amid high temperatures and heat waves. As a result, many Delhiites have relied on water tankers for their daily needs.

Watch: Delhiites Stand In Front Of Water Tankers With Cans & Buckets

June 18, 2024, 1:33 pm

Amidst the ongoing heatwave and recurring incidents of power outages, residents of Delhi were standing in long lines in front of water tankers at the national capital Delhi on Tuesday.

These long ques reflect the deepening water crisis, which continues to affect some parts of the city gravely.

As per viral videos, the people of Vasant Vihar’s kusumpur Pahadi, Geeta Colony and Okhla colony were standing at long queues, with their cans & buckets.

As the water crisis continues to be deteriorate, these scenes are unfortunately, becoming a common sight in various areas of Delhi.

Watch The Videos

#WATCH | Water supplied through tankers to Delhi locals in the Geeta Colony area, amid water shortage in the national capital this summer pic.twitter.com/Z26VBujmfp

— ANI (@ANI) June 18, 2024

#WATCH | Water supplied through tankers to Delhi locals in the Okhla area, amid water shortage in the national capital this summer pic.twitter.com/O81evHtNZH

— ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2024

Besides these areas, Chanakyapuri’s Sanjay Camp, Patel Nagar, Mehrauli, and Chhatarpur are some of the places, which are badly hit by scarcity of the water.

Meanwhile, as common people continue to struggle for water, political parties like BJP and AAP continue to trade blames.

The Aam Aadmi party has accused BJP for deliberately stopping the flow of water into Delhi. While BJP has blamed the former for not taking a strict action on tanker mafia.

Earlier, Delhi water minister Atishi requested Haryana government to release water and resolve problems of common people.

Talking to reporters, Atishi said,

‘Today we are here at Wazirabad barrack. Water from here is sent to various water treatment plants including Wazirabad, Chandrawal, and Okhla. Currently, no water is being released into the Wazirabad barrage. The water level has stepped so low that now the riverbed is visible. Again, we are appealing to the Haryana government to release the water and solve the problems of the people of Delhi.’

#WATCH | Delhi Water Minister Atishi says, “… Water from here is sent to many water treatment plants. No water is being released into the Wazirabad barrage. The water level has gone so low that now the river bed is visible… We can just appeal to the Haryana government to… pic.twitter.com/od1CRD03re

— ANI (@ANI) June 17, 2024

But Haryana CM Nayab Singh Saini later took a dig at Delhi government for ignoring and mismanaging the water supply.

Talking to media, he said, ‘We are providing them sufficient water. First, the AAP government should do some introspection on themselves. They are more focused on corruption rather than fulfilling its promises to the public. They should focus on implementing developmental schemes for the public of Delhi rather than doing corruption.’

‘Water Is Being Stolen Under AAP’s Government’: BJP Chief Virendra Sachdeva

June 11, 2024, 4:49 pm

On Tuesday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) strongly criticized the Delhi government amidst an intensifying water crisis in the capital, accusing it of mismanaging the city’s water resources and alleging corruption within the Delhi Jal Board.

“Water is being stolen under the Delhi government’s protection. The Delhi Jal Board, its officers, chairman, and the Delhi government are responsible for the water crisis,” stated Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva during a press conference.

Sachdeva also highlighted the timing of the government’s response, noting that the Summer Action Plan, intended to address the increased water demand during the hot months, should have been prepared much earlier.

“The Summer Action Plan should be chalked out in February or March, not when the crisis is reported in the media. Right now, Delhi is struggling for even a drop,” the Delhi BJP chief emphasized.

“In a few months, Delhi will struggle with floods because they have not cleaned the drains,” he added.

The ruling AAP has accused BJP-ruled Haryana of withholding Delhi’s share of water for several days, worsening the crisis. On Monday, Lt Governor Saxena met with Delhi ministers Atishi and Saurabh Bharadwaj, assuring them that he would address the water supply issue with the Haryana government. He also advised the ministers to avoid blame games and focus on resolving the issue amicably.

“The LG advised the ministers to not get into pointless blame game and resolve the issue amicably with the neighbouring states. He pointed out that even if Haryana were to give additional water above its allocated share, Delhi did not have enough water treatment plants (WTPs) and capacity to treat the water and supply to the people of Delhi,” the L-G office stated.

Saxena highlighted that if the 25 percent wastage of water in Munak canal due to lack of repairs and theft, and 54 percent unaccounted water, including 40 percent leakages and theft within the city, are addressed, the water crisis in Delhi would be significantly mitigated, the statement added.

Delhi Government Implements Emergency Measures Amid Severe Water Crisis

May 30, 2024, 5:22 pm

The Delhi government has announced emergency measures to combat a crippling water crisis exacerbated by a record-breaking heatwave. In response to severe water shortages, the Delhi government has instructed the Delhi Jal Board to take stringent actions against water wastage, including imposing a ₹2,000 fine on violators. Additionally, the use of potable water at construction sites has been banned.

Emergency Measures Announced

Delhi Minister Atishi revealed the new measures, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “Many car repair and car washing centres are using Delhi Jal Board’s drinking water. We are banning the use of drinking water by the Delhi Jal Board at these centres,” Atishi stated.

Starting tomorrow, teams from the Delhi Pollution Control Committee (DPCC) will inspect car washing and repair centres. “I want to appeal to the people of Delhi… right now, Delhi is facing an emergency because of the heatwave,” she added.

Banned Activities

Central Water Tanker War Room: The Delhi government will establish a central water tanker war room, deploying 200 enforcement teams to crack down on water wastage.
Car Washing: Drinking water from the Delhi Jal Board is banned for washing cars. Washing cars with pipes is also prohibited.
Construction Sites: Using drinking water from the Jal Board at construction sites or for commercial purposes is banned.
Overflowing Water Tanks: Teams will monitor and address overflowing water tanks.
Illegal Water Connections: Illegal water connections at construction sites or commercial establishments will be disconnected.
Public Appeal: The government has urged residents to use water judiciously, warning that failure may lead to the rationalization of water supply.

Impact on Water Supply: Areas currently receiving water twice a day will see their supply reduced to once every 24 hours.

On Wednesday, May 29, Minister Atishi accused the Haryana government of failing to release Delhi’s rightful share of water despite numerous discussions. She indicated that the Delhi government would escalate the matter to the Supreme Court.

These measures underscore the severity of the water crisis in Delhi and the government’s commitment to addressing the emergency through strict regulations and public cooperation.

Water Shortage: Delhi Government To Hold Emergency Meeting

May 30, 2024, 10:45 am

As Delhi faces a water shortage in several areas, the Delhi Government has scheduled an emergency meeting on Thursday at the Delhi Secretariat to tackle the issue. The meeting will be led by Water Minister Atishi and Health Minister Saurabh Bhardwaj, with the Chief Secretary and other senior officials in attendance.

This decision follows reports of severe water crises from various parts of the city, where residents have been waiting for hours for water tankers. Residents of Geeta Colony in East Delhi have expressed concerns about the inadequate water supply from the government, stating they only receive half of what is needed.

Vinay, a resident of Geeta Colony, shared with ANI, “We are facing a severe water crisis. Our locality has a population of around 3,000-4,000 people, but the government sends only half the required number of tankers.” He added, “Although a tanker comes daily, but in this scorching heat, the demand for water has significantly increased. Sometimes, they reduce the amount of water in the tanker, due to which we suffer a lot. While in the absence of tankers, the wealthier residents can buy water, but the poorer ones cannot, due to which they have to drink dirty water, which leads to illness.”

Vinay also mentioned, “We have complained to the MLA of the area multiple times, but we have never received a valid response. No one is listening to us.” An elderly resident noted, “I usually come after 10-15 days, sometimes even a month, but as always, I don’t get water.” Another resident, Shabru Khatun, stated, “There are a lot of problems regarding water in this area. We get only one tanker for the entire area. The tanker water is used for drinking and cooking purposes. Sometimes, we don’t even get the tanker, and we are forced to buy bottled water.”

Earlier on Tuesday, Minister Atishi accused the Haryana government of not releasing Delhi’s water share despite “so many talks.” She warned that if the water supply does not improve in the next 1-2 days, they will consider moving to the Supreme Court.

Atishi also urged people to use water judiciously, warning that the government might have to rationalize the water supply in the national capital. She emphasized that fines for excessive water use could be imposed if people do not heed the appeal.

Discussing measures to address the water shortage, Atishi stated, “In the last one week, there has been a water crisis in many areas of Delhi… We have taken various steps but because the water level is decreasing constantly, we have to take more steps. The areas which get a water supply for two times will be reduced to once… We are in an adverse condition where Delhi’s water supply is being halted by Haryana.”

Water Crisis Escalates: 38 Villages in Karnataka’s Mandya District Seek Aid, Helpline Established for Assistance

March 27, 2024, 12:53 pm

Bengaluru is currently experiencing a severe water shortage, and a similar crisis has emerged in Mandya, Karnataka, where 38 villages are grappling with water scarcity due to decreasing water levels during the summer season. To combat this, local authorities have commandeered private borewells to secure water distribution in the impacted villages. The Hindu reports that one of these villages is receiving water distribution through tankers.

The situation is unfolding as water levels in the Cauvery basin dams in Karnataka are declining. On March 15, 2023, the storage level at the KRS dam stood at 14.72 TMC feet, whereas on the same date in 2024, it was recorded at 41.06 TMC feet.

Following the recent crisis in the villages, a meeting took place in Mandya on Monday. Panchayat Development Officers from the Gram Panchayats, officers from the taluk panchayat, and assistant engineers from the water supply division attended the meeting. During the meeting, they decided to schedule meetings on the first and fourth Monday of each month for the next three months to monitor the water situation and implement measures to address the crisis.

In response to the crisis, the Mandya district administration has initiated a drinking water helpline for the public to report issues and receive prompt assistance.

The administration has announced that the helpline (08232-229624) will operate 24/7. With rising temperatures and declining water levels in the KRS dam and other sources, the district is preparing to tackle the challenges of the upcoming summer.

Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Shaikh Tanveer Asif informed TOI that a 24×7 helpline has been established following the directives of the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department.

As of March 12, data indicates that eight villages in the district are experiencing a drinking water shortage. To address this, more than nine private borewells have been commissioned, providing coverage for 10 villages.