As Clock Ticks on Water Emergency, a Four-Pronged Efficiency Plan Can Help Tackle the Crisis

The challenges facing the water sector in the country has been dramatically highlighted by the current water crisis in Chennai. Water for the city is running out and extreme measures like carrying water on trains are being attempted. The government has made a good beginning by bringing all water-related issues under the umbrella of the new Ministry of Jal Shakti, which is the successor of the earlier Ministry of Water Resources. Having created a new ministry and recognising the gravity of the situation, some new initiatives on water could be expected in the forthcoming Budget. A comprehensive strategy and a roadmap for implementation is required.