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GS3 — Economy & Environment

Urban Springs: Strengthening Water Security in Himalayan Cities

1 min read6 Key Facts

Why in News

Himalayan cities like Gangtok face severe water crises due to climate change impacts (reduced rainfall, landslides) and increasing demand from population growth and tourism. Overlooked urban springs offer a potential decentralized solution to enhance water security.

Background

The vulnerability of centralized water systems in Himalayan cities highlights the need for resilient, decentralized water management strategies. Reviving urban springs can provide sustainable local water sources, crucial for adapting to climate change and ensuring urban water security.

Key Figure

• 2019 — Ministry of Jal Shakti formation year • 2021 — Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban) launch year • 4,378 — statutory towns targeted by JJM (Urban)

Key Facts

  1. 1Gangtok: Capital city of Sikkim | located in the eastern Himalayan range | known for its mountainous terrain and climate vulnerability.
  2. 2Ratey Chu River: Main water source for Gangtok | susceptible to discharge variations due to rainfall patterns.
  3. 3Ministry of Jal Shakti (MoJS): Formed in 2019 by merging Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation and Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation.
  4. 4Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban): Launched in 2021 | aims to provide universal coverage of water supply in all 4,378 statutory towns | under MoJS.
  5. 5Springshed Management: Integrated approach for conservation and management of springs, often involving community participation and scientific methods.
  6. 6Himalayan Region: Prone to landslides, flash floods, and changes in precipitation patterns, directly impacting water availability and infrastructure.

Exam Angle

The urban water crisis in Himalayan cities underscores the need for integrated water resource management, combining traditional knowledge of spring revival with modern infrastructure planning to enhance climate resilience.

PYQ Connection

📜

PRELIMS_FACT: Location of Gangtok; MAINS_ANALYTICAL: Urban water management challenges, climate change impact on water resources

Map Points

📍Gangtok→Sikkim📍Ratey Chu River→Gangtok's main water source

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