#Partner4Water: Addressing India’s Water Crisis
It's the height of summer in India, and once again, the issue of water scarcity comes to the fore. To spread awareness on the need for various stakeholders to join hands and #partner4water, Ambuja Foundation launched a digital campaign to promote collaboration in tackling the crisis.
A live panel discussion is scheduled for Friday, 5th June 2020, featuring:
- Rajendra Singh – Water Man of India, Magsaysay Award Winner, Conservationist and Environmentalist
- Niyati Sareen – Project Director (Water), Hinduja Foundation
- Dr. Sanjay Belsare – Chief Engineer & Joint Secretary, Water Resource Department, Government of Maharashtra
- Pearl Tiwari – Director & CEO, Ambuja Foundation
This panel will explore the contribution of water to the macro environment and livelihoods, and the importance of continuing to invest in water solutions.
Impact of COVID-19 on Water Demand
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased water use across the country, with demand rising by 30–50% per household due to guidelines recommending frequent handwashing (10 × 20-second washes per day, using 1–2 litres each time).
In rural areas, where water scarcity is already severe, COVID-19 has added new challenges:
- How to maintain social distancing when collecting water at wells or pumps?
- How to meet hygiene guidelines when water is barely enough for daily needs?
- How to sanitize shared water sources like hand pumps used by many families?
- How to prevent contamination of village ponds used for drinking and bathing?
Building Water-Resilient Communities
Ambuja Foundation, together with Government, Corporates, Civil Society, and Communities, has strengthened water resilience through:
- Rooftop Rainwater Harvesting Systems that make households self-sufficient and help maintain distancing norms.
- Groundwater recharge work ensuring wells remain full.
- Decentralized water distribution systems, including household taps and additional community taps, reducing crowding.
- Reviving traditional water harvesting systems, increasing water availability year-round.
Get Involved
To explore how you can #partner4water and help address India’s water crisis, contact: brajeshsingh.tomar.ext@ambujafoundation.com
