Urban Springs Key to Water Security in Himalayan Cities
Why in News
Himalayan cities like Gangtok face increasing water crises due to vulnerable centralized systems, population growth, and urban expansion, making overlooked urban springs a vital solution for water security.
Background
Emphasizes the need for decentralized, resilient water management solutions in ecologically sensitive Himalayan regions, crucial for sustainable urban development.
Key Facts
- 1Himalayan Cities: Face water stress due to vulnerable centralized systems and climate change impacts.
- 2Gangtok: Capital of Sikkim, cited as an example facing water crisis from Ratey Chu River discharge drop.
- 3Urban Springs: Natural groundwater outlets, often overlooked, can provide decentralized water sources.
- 4Water Security: Ensuring access to sufficient, safe, acceptable, physically accessible, and affordable water.
- 5Challenges: Monsoon landslides damaging pipelines, winter droughts shrinking rivers, population growth, tourism.
- 6Art. 21 (Right to Life): Interpreted by SC to include right to clean water as a fundamental right.
Exam Angle
The reliance on urban springs in Himalayan cities highlights the governance imperative for integrated urban water management, combining traditional knowledge with modern infrastructure for climate resilience.
PYQ Connection
PRELIMS_FACT: Water sources in Himalayan region; MAINS_ANALYTICAL: Challenges in achieving water security under Jal Jeevan Mission and SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation).
Map Points