Bengaluru NGO Urges River-Centric Planning Amid Water Crisis
Bengaluru, the Silicon Valley of India, is facing an unprecedented water crisis. The city’s demand for water far exceeds its sustainable supply, leaving residents scrambling for a solution. Amidst this crisis, a citizen-led NGO, Paani Earth, is urging the newly formed Greater Bengaluru Authority to adopt a river-centric approach to urban planning. The organization is convinced that this is the only way to ensure the city’s survival.
According to a recent report, Bengaluru’s water crisis is expected to worsen in the coming years. The city’s water demand is projected to increase by 20% annually, while its supply is expected to decrease by 10% annually. This gap between demand and supply has led to a severe water shortage, with residents forced to rely on private tankers and borewells. The situation is further exacerbated by the city’s rapid urbanization, which has led to the destruction of natural habitats and the degradation of water bodies.
Paani Earth, a non-profit organization founded by a group of young professionals, is determined to change the narrative. The organization is pushing for watershed-based planning, which involves managing water resources at the catchment level. This approach recognizes that water is a shared resource, and that its management must be done in a holistic and sustainable manner.
Paani Earth’s ‘Waterscapes of Bangalore’ exhibit, which was recently launched, is a powerful tool in their campaign. The exhibit features stunning visuals and interactive displays that highlight the city’s water crisis and the need for sustainable solutions. The exhibit also showcases the organization’s vision for a water-secure Bengaluru, which includes the restoration of lakes, the protection of watersheds, and the promotion of rainwater harvesting.
The exhibit is not just a call to action, but also a celebration of Bengaluru’s rich water heritage. The city is home to over 100 lakes, which were once the lifeblood of the city. However, many of these lakes are now polluted and degraded, and are no longer able to support the city’s water needs.
Paani Earth is urging the Greater Bengaluru Authority to adopt a river-centric approach to urban planning. This involves recognizing the city’s rivers as a vital component of its water system, and managing them in a way that is sustainable and environmentally friendly. The organization is also pushing for the restoration of lakes, which are critical to the city’s water security.
The organization’s efforts are gaining momentum, with several stakeholders already coming on board. The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board has partnered with Paani Earth to launch a campaign to clean up the city’s lakes. The campaign, which is called ‘Lake Revival,’ aims to restore the city’s lakes to their former glory, and to make them a source of pride for the city’s residents.
Paani Earth is also working with local businesses to promote sustainable water practices. The organization has partnered with several companies to launch a campaign to promote rainwater harvesting, which is a critical component of sustainable water management. The campaign, which is called ‘Rainwater Revolution,’ aims to encourage businesses and residents to harvest rainwater, and to use it for non-potable purposes.
The city’s residents are also playing a crucial role in Paani Earth’s campaign. The organization is engaging with residents through workshops, seminars, and community events, and is educating them on the importance of water conservation. The organization is also encouraging residents to adopt sustainable water practices, such as using water-efficient appliances, and to report any water leaks or waste to the authorities.
In conclusion, Bengaluru’s water crisis is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Paani Earth’s ‘Waterscapes of Bangalore’ exhibit is a powerful reminder of the city’s water crisis, and the need for sustainable solutions. The organization’s river-centric approach to urban planning is a critical component of the city’s water security, and its efforts to restore lakes and promote sustainable water practices are crucial to the city’s survival.
As the city’s residents, it is our responsibility to take action and to demand that our leaders take concrete steps to address the water crisis. We must work together to create a water-secure Bengaluru, and to ensure that our city remains a thriving and sustainable metropolis for generations to come.
