Water, the elixir of life, is a resource that has always been considered abundant in India, a country blessed with numerous rivers, lakes, and an annual monsoon season. However, in recent decades, India has been facing an alarming water crisis that threatens the well-being of its people, the environment, and the economy.
India has 18% of the world’s population, but only 4% of its water resources, making it among the most water-stressed in the world. According to “Composite Water Management Index” report, published by NITI Aayog, nearly 600 million people in India face high water stress. The report further mentions that India is placed at 120th amongst 122 countries in the water quality index, with nearly 70% of water being contaminated.
One of the primary reasons for water scarcity is the over-extraction of groundwater for agriculture and domestic use. India is the largest consumer of groundwater in the world,. Excessive use of borewells and tube wells has led to the depletion of aquifers, causing long-term damage to the environment.
In India there around 300 million cars and the numbers are only going to increase. With an average consumption of 25 – 50 Liters to wash a vehicle amounts to 180 billion Liters of fresh water wasted annually.
Many of India’s major riversare highly polluted. Industrial discharge, untreated sewage, and agricultural runoff have severely contaminated these vital water bodies, endangering the health of millions who depend on them for drinking water and agriculture.
India’s water crisis is a complex and pressing issue that demands immediate attention. The stakes are high, as water scarcity affects not only the well-being of individuals but also the sustainability of the economy and the environment. Addressing the crisis requires concerted efforts from government, industry, and communities. Through efficient water management, conservation, and policy reforms, India can work towards securing a sustainable water future for its people and the generations to come.
Eco-friendly waterless car washcan play a role in addressing the water crisis in India by reducing water consumption, minimizing pollution, and raising awareness about responsible water usage. However, it should be viewed as one part of a broader strategy to address water scarcity issues in the country.