This refers to the editorial, “Water woes” (June 27). Disaster looms is the apt warning. Two basic facts about groundwater should be understood. There is almost no inherent groundwater resource. All such resources are a result of recharge by rains or existing water bodies in the vicinity. The absence of these factors means absence of water.
Besides, over-exploitation of this resource, which for long has been a norm, results into poor water quality. With disappearance of village tanks, drying rivers and vagaries of monsoons, the recharge system is in doldrums. Add to this our unstoppable population and self-centred consumers — individuals, farmers, industries and dilapidated and reckless water-supply systems. The picture of gloom is complete.
“Water should not be a commodity and “this being a life-sustaining source for all living beings, it must be available to all” are fine. When, however, greed outstrips need, an action is called for. Widespread individual awareness and judicious use by farmers and industries
are the voluntary actions. Stern legislation to nip the crisis in the bud is also now a requisite. The way we are, no such official compliance and controls are without opening new channels for corruption which should be carefully plugged.