Water Scarcity in India Causes, Effects, and Data on Shortages

Subject : Social Studies

Question:

Why does water flow also trickle in summer in most places in India? Discuss the shortage of water in India and collect data about the water shortage in the country.

Expert Verified Solution:

Water flow trickles in the summer in most places in India due to several factors, primarily the rise in temperatures, which increases evaporation rates from rivers, lakes, and other water sources. Additionally, there is a high demand for water during summer months for agriculture, drinking, and domestic purposes, straining available resources. India’s monsoon-based climate results in a significant portion of the annual rainfall occurring between June and September, leading to seasonal water shortages. The lack of proper water conservation infrastructure, over-extraction of groundwater, and pollution of freshwater sources further exacerbate the issue.

In India, water scarcity is a significant challenge, especially in densely populated urban areas and agriculturally dependent regions. Several parts of the country face acute shortages, with groundwater levels depleting at an alarming rate. For instance, regions like Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Tamil Nadu have experienced severe droughts in recent years. In urban centers like Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai, water supply is often rationed due to the excessive demand outstripping the available supply. According to the NITI Aayog’s report, by 2030, India’s water demand is projected to be twice the available supply, which could lead to severe water stress for millions of people.

Collected Data on Water Shortage in India:

• Groundwater depletion: India is the world’s largest extractor of groundwater, with around 230 cubic kilometers being used annually. However, over 600 million people face high to extreme water stress.
• Agricultural impact: Over 80% of India’s freshwater is used for agricultural purposes, contributing to rapid depletion of water resources.
• Urban water crisis: Cities like Chennai have experienced “Day Zero,” where water reservoirs dried up, affecting millions of residents.
• NITI Aayog report: Nearly 21 cities are expected to run out of groundwater by 2030, impacting approximately 100 million people.