Smart solutions key to solving India’s water crisis

Just one hundred years ago, there were so many rivers, lakes, ponds and wells in India that it was unimaginable to think that the country could ever face a water crisis. And yet, across the ancient country, many residents are facing just that. India’s water scarcity is a reality that needs many solutions for resolve. India can increase water supply in many ways. Eighty percent of India’s water is used for farming. A nationwide program to recharge groundwater coupled with an intelligent agriculture policy would replenish wells and tanks, reduce flooding during storms, and keep rivers flowing even in the dry season because rivers are connected to natural aquifers. The author presents solutions such as reuse, desalination, stormwater harvesting, and improved water and wastewater management practices to secure additional water supply.