Syllabus: GS- III, Subject: Environment, Ecology and Disaster Management, Topic: Disaster Management, Issue: Water Crisis
Context: Water Crisis in Karnataka (Bengaluru)
- Bengaluru’s reliance on the Cauvery River and groundwater worsens the crisis.
Key factors responsible for the crisis:
- Insufficient rainfall– resulting under-‘replenishment’ of the Cauvery.
- Reduction in rainy season – less number of rainy days.
- Bengaluru’s lack of preparation– low ground water recharge rate, demand-supply mismatch, reduction in number of lakes within the city, low investment on research and development etc.
Concerns:
- Climate change leads to non-linear, disproportionate, and potentially irreversible outcomes, necessitating rapid and sustained responses.
- Even if erratic rainfall is not directly linked to climate change, its unpredictability will likely increase.
The way ahead:
- long-term strategies are crucial.
- Holistic solutions to be ready for rapid urban growth
- Circular water economy: can reduce reliance on external sources and maximize water utility.
- Restoring the health of rivers.
