What is Water?
Water is a transparent, odourless, tasteless liquid that is essential for the existence of life on Earth. It is a chemical compound with the molecular formula H2O, consisting of two hydrogen atoms covalently bonded to one oxygen atom. Water is unique in its ability to exist in three states-solid (ice), liquid, and gas (water vapour)-under normal terrestrial conditions. It plays a crucial role in various biological, chemical, and physical processes, serving as a universal solvent, facilitating chemical reactions, and regulating temperature. Water is found in oceans, rivers, lakes, glaciers, and as vapour in the atmosphere.
What is Water Pollution?
Water pollution happens when harmful substances like chemicals, waste, and germs contaminate rivers, lakes, and oceans. It harms aquatic life and human health, caused of improper waste disposal and industrial releases. It reduces biodiversity, damages drinking water sources, and negatively affects ecosystems. Preventing water pollution involves using sustainable practices, strict regulations, and raising public awareness to protect this essential resource and create a healthier environment.
What are the solutions?
Effectively addressing water pollution requires a multifaceted approach encompassing stringent regulations, sustainable practices, improved infrastructure, and widespread public awareness. Governments must enforce strict environmental standards to curb industrial and agricultural pollution while promoting sustainable practices and investing in wastewater treatment facilities. Public education campaigns are vital in fostering a sense of responsibility and encouraging water conservation. International cooperation is essential for managing transboundary pollution, and communities should actively engage in monitoring, reporting, and cleanup efforts. Research, innovation, and corporate responsibility further contribute to developing and adopting cleaner technologies. A comprehensive strategy that combines legislative measures, community involvement, and technological advancements is crucial for preventing and mitigating water pollution, and ensuring the availability of clean water resources for both ecosystems and human communities.
Kaveri Water Dispute
The Kaveri water dispute is a protracted and contentious conflict between the Indian states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over the sharing of the Kaveri River's waters. Its historical roots lie in colonial-era agreements, primarily the 1924 agreement, which was meant to be in effect for 50 years but continues to be a source of dispute today. Karnataka's key contentions revolve around the belief that the 1924 agreement, which allocated water based on historical circumstances, should not be binding in the present day. They argue that Tamil Nadu was a British province at the time, while Karnataka was a princely state, which may have limited its influence in negotiating the terms effectively. Conversely, Tamil Nadu insists that the fundamental principles of the 1924 agreement should be maintained, with a provision for periodic review after 50 years. They assert that it was understood that the clauses would be revisited, not entirely overhauled. This historical discord has led to a series of legal interventions and authorities, such as the Kaveri Water Disputes Tribunal and the Kaveri Water Management Authority, to adjudicate and manage water allocations.
fundamental principles of the 1924 agreement should be maintained, with a provision for periodic review after 50 years. They assert that it was understood that the clauses would be revisited, not entirely overhauled. This historical discord has led to a series of legal interventions and authorities, such as the Kaveri Water Disputes Tribunal and the Kaveri Water Management Authority, to adjudicate and manage water allocations.
The dispute has led to fluctuations in water releases, with both states experiencing water shortages during periods of lower rainfall. The Supreme Court's involvement and subsequent rulings have attempted to strike a balance between the historical agreements and contemporary challenges. In the midst of this ongoing dispute, millions of farmers in the region depend on the Kaveri's waters for their livelihoods, making a resolution crucial for the well-being of both states.
Karnataka could change their main crops from rice and sugar to millet. Millets are very miraculous crops as they need very little water too. Millets need 4x less water than rice, 2x less water than wheat and 5x less water than sugar! They also don’t pollute the groundwater and are drought-resistant. Another fun fact about millets is that they are in high demand in Karnataka as only 10% of millet demand is being fulfilled in the state. This creates huge business opportunities for the farmers in Karnataka.