KOCHI: Experts point out that a scientific approach is needed to protect the existing water bodies and suggested that an action plan with a new vision was the need of the hour. “We need to envisage a new vision. The preservation of existing water bodies is very important. In Kerala there are 46 lakh wells, ie a minimum of 200 wells per square kilometre. Out of the total wells, 95 per cent belong to individuals. But once they began receiving water connections from local bodies and KWA, people started to ignore the wells. “In the past, we use to maintain wells by cleaning them on an annual basis. The same was applied to ponds. However, now in most areas, these water sources are under utilised,” said SCMS Water Institute director Sunny George.
He said that an action plan should be chalked out by the respective local bodies to protect the water sources. “Usually, local bodies start thinking of remedial measures after the drought hits the respective areas. It is better to act with a vision, and chalk out an action plan to tackle the crisis before it hits,” he said.
Coordinated efforts
The local bodies should also successfully integrate various agencies/government departments that are now dealing with water. “At present KWA, Ground Water Department, Meteorology Department and civic bodies as well as other local bodies are studying/ dealing with water related strategies, its supply and conservation. The local bodies should coordinate these departments and provide a common platform for joint efforts,” George added.
Local Water Policy
A local water policy after considering the demand, supply, existing water sources and other factors should be framed by each local body. “ The climate change is the major reason for the increase in demand of water. The temperature is increasing every year and along with that the need of water will also increase. Hence we should think of realistic and practical plans for the future,” he added.
Panchayat-level water audits
The local bodies should take an estimate of their respective areas to assess the demand and supply of water. Initially the sources should be identified. The volume of water received by each area from sources like rain, KWA supply, ground water and wells and tanker lorries should be separately assessed.
The demand for water for various institutions like households, hospitals, malls, educational institutions, industrial units and apartment complexes should also be identified.
“After assessing the details, we will be able to find out the gap in demand and supply,” experts added.