Jamshedpur: The scorching summer heat in the city has intensified the ongoing water crisis as the demand for water soars, leading to severe water scarcity in many areas of the city. With temperatures reaching record highs and limited water availability, residents are facing increasing challenges in meeting their basic water needs.
The rising temperatures during the summer season have resulted in higher evaporation rates, reduced water levels in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, and increased water consumption for various purposes, including drinking, cooking, bathing, and irrigation. As a result, many parts of the city are grappling with inadequate water supply, disrupted water distribution systems, and prolonged water shortages.
According to the information, the water problem is more severe in the areas located at the tail-end of the water supply system and on the city outskirts. The Mango Notified Area Committee, (MNAC) which acts as a municipal body to oversee the day-to-day municipal requirements of about 1.80 lakh population is concerned over the plight of its residents but says it is helpless.
“We do understand the fact that this summer is going to be very bothersome for us but the drinking water and sanitation department will have to take care of this matter,” said an official of MNAC.
The population of Mango is about two lakh and people depend on groundwater and tube wells. But the process of urbanisation decreased recharge and increased withdrawal of groundwater.
Moreover, a huge amount of groundwater is pumped out for residential, industrial and commercial use. Similar is the situation at Jugsalai, Pursidih, Karandih and Kitadih. In several areas water is being supplied through tankers.
In response to the worsening water crisis, local authorities and water management agencies are implementing various measures to mitigate the impacts, including water rationing, water-saving campaigns, and infrastructure improvements. However, the severity of the situation calls for concerted efforts from all stakeholders, including residents, businesses, and policymakers, to address the water crisis and ensure sustainable water management practices in the city.
The situation is a stark reminder of the importance of water conservation, efficient water use, and planning for water sustainability, not just during the summer season but throughout the year, to safeguard the water resources and ensure access to clean water for all residents.
With the arrival of summer, the demand for water has surged as people require more water for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and irrigation purposes. However, the available water supply is unable to meet the rising demand, leading to widespread water scarcity in many parts of the city. The situation is further compounded by the inadequate infrastructure for water storage and distribution, as well as the effects of climate change, which have led to decreased rainfall and reduced water availability.
Many households are facing the brunt of the water crisis, with residents having to cope with irregular water supply, long hours of waiting for water tankers, and increased reliance on expensive alternatives like bottled water. The situation is particularly dire in low-income communities, where access to clean water is already limited, and the summer heat has worsened the situation.