ARE WE RUNNING OUT OF WATER-- Vishal Kurakar

 

ARE WE RUNNING OUT OF WATER

Vishal Kurakar

M.A in English Literature, Formerly Guest Faculty at the Cooperative College of Arts and Science Thiruvananthapuraam. He is currently working as an Administrative Officer at Comrade Software Marketing LLC, Dubai.

Even though Earth is called the Blue Planet, the world is facing a serious shortage of fresh water. Around 71% of the planet is covered in water, but nearly all of it is saltwater. Only about 2.5% is freshwater, and most of that is locked away in glaciers or stored deep underground. This leaves a very small amount of clean water available in rivers, lakes, and accessible groundwater. 

Experts warn that the global water crisis is no longer a future threat — it is happening now. Many countries are already struggling to provide enough clean water for drinking, farming, and daily use. 

Water scarcity happens when the demand for water becomes higher than the supply, or when water cannot be properly stored and distributed due to poor infrastructure. In many regions, shortages are made worse by mismanagement, pollution, and waste.

A growing population is one of the biggest reasons behind the rising demand. More people means more water is needed for homes, industries, and agriculture. Farming alone consumes the largest share of freshwater worldwide, and inefficient irrigation methods often lead to major water loss. 

Climate change is also intensifying the problem. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are causing longer droughts in some places and sudden floods in others. Glaciers, which provide freshwater to millions through rivers, are melting rapidly, threatening long-term water supply. 

The effects of water scarcity are widespread. Lack of clean water increases health risks, reduces crop production, and can even trigger conflict and migration. Governments and communities are being urged to act quickly by improving water management, reducing pollution, and investing in better infrastructure.As the crisis grows, experts say protecting freshwater resources must become a top global priority.

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