WATER RESOURCES by Dr PUJA SINGH скачать в хорошем качестве

WATER RESOURCES by Dr PUJA SINGH

Slide 1: Water Resources (Title Slide) Today’s lecture focuses on water resources, their distribution, uses, growing pressure, shortage issues, conservation methods, and the role of government. Water is a vital natural resource and its sustainable management is crucial for life and development. Slide 2: Index This slide outlines the structure of the lecture. We will first understand what water resources are, then discuss their distribution on Earth, various uses, emerging challenges like water scarcity, and finally conservation strategies at different levels. Slide 3: Water Resources Water resources include all natural sources of water that are useful for human and ecological purposes. Although water is essential for all living organisms, only a small fraction of Earth’s water is available as fresh water, making conservation extremely important. Slide 4: Distribution of Water on Earth This slide highlights that water is unevenly distributed on Earth. About 97% is saltwater, and only 3% is freshwater. Most freshwater is locked in glaciers and ice caps, while a very small portion is available as surface water and groundwater. Slide 5: Uses of Water Water is a universal solvent and is used in almost every aspect of life. It is obtained from sources such as rivers, lakes, wells, rain, and ponds. Major uses include domestic, agricultural, industrial, power generation, and recreation. Slide 6: Domestic Uses of Water About 15% of water is used for domestic purposes. This includes drinking, cooking, bathing, washing, sanitation, gardening, and other household activities. Domestic water may come from public supply systems or private sources such as wells and rainwater harvesting. Slide 7: Agricultural Uses of Water Agriculture is the largest consumer of water, using nearly 70% of available freshwater. Water is essential for irrigation, crop growth, fisheries, and livestock. Plants need water for photosynthesis and overall productivity, making agriculture highly water-dependent. Slide 8: Industrial Uses of Water Industries use water for cooling, processing, washing, transporting materials, and power generation. Industries like chemical, paper, and food processing consume large quantities of water. Industrial water use also contributes to pollution if not managed properly. Slide 9: Pressure on Water Resources Increasing population, urbanization, industrialization, and poor management practices have put immense pressure on water resources. Although awareness has increased, policy decisions are still driven largely by economic and political considerations rather than scientific understanding. Slide 10: Shortage of Water Despite water covering 70% of the Earth, freshwater is extremely limited. A large population lacks access to safe drinking water. Water scarcity leads to health problems, sanitation issues, and water-borne diseases, especially in developing countries. Slide 11: Shortage of Water (Continued) Water systems such as rivers, lakes, aquifers, and wetlands are under stress due to overuse and pollution. Climate change further worsens the situation by causing droughts and floods. If current trends continue, global water scarcity will intensify. Slide 12: Water Conservation – Domestic Level At the household level, water conservation begins with simple behavioral changes such as turning off taps, reducing shower time, and avoiding wastage. Installing low-flow fixtures and adopting rainwater harvesting can significantly reduce water consumption. Slide 13: Water Conservation – Industrial Level Industries can conserve water by adopting efficient technologies, recycling water, and conducting water audits. Reducing water use lowers operational costs and helps protect limited freshwater resources. Slide 14: Water Conservation – Agricultural Level Agriculture requires improved water management through efficient irrigation methods, soil management, water recycling, and organic farming practices. Since agriculture consumes the most water, conservation in this sector is critical. Slide 15: Steps Taken by Government to Conserve Water The Government of India has introduced policies like the National Water Policy (2012), promoted rainwater harvesting, and created the Ministry of Jal Shakti. Efforts focus on scientific planning, community participation, and protection of water bodies. Slide 16: Government Initiatives (Continued) Institutions such as CGWA and CGWB regulate groundwater use and promote artificial recharge projects. Programs encourage mandatory rainwater harvesting and sustainable groundwater management to address long-term water scarcity.