The first step in fixing a water budget in India is to have a system to monitor, regulate and curb wasteful uses of water. The proposed National Bureau of Water Use Efficiency as a body to enforce certification systems for water use efficiency can be seen as a welcome step in this direction.

Many countries including India are witnessing water shortage and the situation is only likely to deteriorate. Increasing population and over-exploitation of water resources are the major causes of water scarcity. At a time when many fight to get their share of daily water, we witness contrasting norms of water usage in many countries around the world. We bring to you a few facts, which will perhaps make you see how inherently unequal water usage is.

Rainwater harvesting is a scientific and controlled collection of rain for future use – identified as the most effective way to recharge groundwater. Despite its potential rainwater harvesting systems are still not thoroughly implemented in Indian cities.

Monsoons in India is characterised by spatial and temporal variability. The moisture laden southwest winds, begin their annual sojourn from the coastal state of Kerala, gradually dispersing over the rest of the sub-continent.

Greywater reuse, especially for households, presents a viable option for curtailing unnecessary waste of freshwater. In a backdrop of severe water shortage, adoption of alternative uses of water for daily activities is imperative.