Manage dependence on water
India needs to set up water regulatory authority along the lines of power and telecom sectors, given the high consumption expected from industrial sectors, especially electricity generating plants, according to an industry study.
With India’s power sector expected to account for 98% of additional water withdrawals and 95% of additional consumption between 2010 and 2035, making it essential to reuse treated water for sustainable water management, suggested a recent ASSOCHAM-KPMG joint study.
“A water regulator is essential to create power legislation and regulations for private sector participation and innovative financing mechanism,” recommended the study, ‘Water sector resilience-Reimagining a blue future.
The study was conducted by The Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) jointly with global professional services firm KPMG.
The report added that with fossil fuels having the biggest water footprint, energy sector is inextricably linked with water since almost all forms of energy production rely on the supply of water.
It further said that lack of regulatory authority is hampering the growth of water sector in India more so considering the enormous challenges and multiple disputes around allocation of water.
Considering that water is a state subject, it is imperative that the Central Government makes it mandatory for each state to have a state water policy.
“This should focus on innovative technological approaches across various consumers of water for implementation, operation and maintenance and mandate establishment of a water regulatory authority.”
The study also highlighted need to improve water efficiency for irrigation infrastructure as agriculture sector requires 800 billion cubic meters of water annually out of which 60% is dependent on rain and nearly 40% is through assured water supply (irrigation).
Besides, lack of capacity building of the utilities in managing water infrastructure is leading to poor service delivery. Thus, the study suggested for involving community (end beneficiary) in the process of infrastructure management for optimum use. fiinews.com
