The findings of this study highlight the urgent need for greater public awareness and political action to address water security challenges, not only in India but globally.
NEW DELHI (India CSR): A recent study conducted by BSI and Waterwise reveals that India, along with China and the US, faces significant water security challenges, with limited progress being made in addressing these issues. The study, which draws on publicly available data and international polling, highlights a growing gap between the public’s understanding of the severity of the water crisis and the reality of the situation.
Water Scarcity Expected to Worsen by 2050
Previous reports have already sounded the alarm on India’s impending water crisis, predicting that by 2050, nearly half of the country’s states will face severe water scarcity. Overuse, pollution, and climate change are identified as key drivers of this looming disaster. Fast-growing cities like Delhi, Chennai, and Bengaluru are particularly vulnerable, struggling with a lack of infrastructure, poor governance, and financial constraints, all of which exacerbate the problem.
Public Awareness vs. Political Attention
The study found that while 70% of Indian respondents acknowledge the global importance of water security, only 54% view it as critical as addressing climate change. Furthermore, only one-third of respondents reported regularly seeing water security discussed in the media or by politicians. This is despite warnings that water scarcity could severely impact India’s economy, agriculture, and industries like textiles and energy, which are heavily dependent on water.
No progress on water security in India while complacency about crisis persists, finds new study.
India Scores High on Water Security Challenges
India, China, and the US scored above 50 in the 2024 Water Security and Solutions Indicator, marking them as countries with significant water security challenges. The study found a disconnect between public perception and the actual situation, as 85% of respondents in India expressed confidence in the country’s freshwater supply, a sentiment that contrasts sharply with expert warnings.
Public Willingness to Act on Water Security
On a positive note, the study revealed that 65% of Indians believe it is important to take personal action to reduce water wastage. Additionally, 89% of respondents stated that they consider sustainability claims when making purchases, and 86% said they would be willing to buy goods made from less water-intensive materials, even at higher prices.
Expert Insights on India’s Water Challenges
Theuns Kotze, Managing Director of BSI Group India, commented on the findings, saying, “India is experiencing a particularly significant water challenge, reflecting not only the scale of water insecurity but also the slow progress in terms of infrastructure and public engagement. While there is no silver bullet, there are actions we can take today to accelerate progress towards a sustainable world.”
Global Efforts Needed for Water Security
Susan Taylor Martin, Chief Executive of BSI, emphasized the need for a global approach, stating, “While we are seeing pockets of progress towards a water-secure world, much more needs to be done. Awareness and recognition of the scale of the challenge are the first steps, followed by concrete actions to address it. From improving water efficiency to advancing wastewater management, we all have a role to play.”
Public Engagement Key to Addressing Crisis
Nicci Russell, CEO of Waterwise, highlighted the public’s willingness to contribute to solutions, noting, “There is a genuine appetite among the public to be part of the solution, but progress remains slow in most parts of the world. A key part of the solution lies in using water wisely in our homes and workplaces, which will help secure water supplies and better adapt to climate change.”
Global Disparities in Water Security Confidence
The study also revealed disparities in public confidence about water security across countries. Britons and the Japanese expressed the least confidence in their understanding of their country’s water security, potentially reflecting insufficient political and media attention on the issue. Additionally, a quarter of respondents globally were unsure about their country’s infrastructure for ensuring water security, with the UK and Japan reporting the lowest confidence levels.
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