THE dry spell has caused drastic drops in the water levels of a few dams.  If we are to manage water scarcity we should:

» Protect all water-catchment areas and potential catchment areas. 

» Emergency drills should be carried out in stages to familiarise consumers. This will help to streamline information dissemination, communication barriers and consumer preparedness.

» Cross-channelling of treated water between piping networks must be developed. Stand alone piping networks are not a viable solution. » Water treatment plants should not run on full capacity, there should be reserves to accommodate fluctuations during a crisis.

» Non-Revenue Water (NRW) on average for 2008 is close to 37%. In addition, non-domestic treated water consumption has increased by 6% from 2007 to 2008. While domestic use of treated water is high, stress from industrial water use must be catered as well. Reduction of NRW should be placed as the main Key Performance Index to water operators and regulators.

» Reduction of treated water wastage is another important component. Water saving gadgets such as low flow tabs, as well as dual flush systems are some solutions. In addition, reuse of grey water (water  used for washing vegetables or clothes) can reduce dependency on treated water for flushing and other basic cleaning processes.

» Industries must play a vital role in reducing water consumption by adopting green technologies to reuse and recycle water. This will help the industry to reduce its water bill and increase its environmental performance. Industries that move towards this must be encouraged via the green technology fund established by Energy, Green Technology and Water Ministry.

» Use of hydroelectric dams as source of raw water for irrigation and water treatment must be considered.

Water shortages can be prevented or kept under control if the above measures are put in place.

Source: The Sun – March 1, 2010