Uttarakhand’s water crisis has escalated in the wake of rising summer temperatures, compounded by a deficit in rainfall and snowfall during the winter. In response, the state government has implemented a ban on water usage for car washing, mandating that vehicles be “dry washed” instead.
This water crisis has severely impacted various cities within Uttarakhand, namely Dehradun, Nainital, Pithoragarh, Didihat, Kotdwar, and Champawat. Residents have been forced to rely on water tankers due to the scarcity, and the government has identified 317 villages and 148 urban localities that are facing acute shortages.
Water flow in Uttarakhand’s rivers has also diminished significantly, prompting the government to identify 10 rivers in need of revitalization. District magistrates have been tasked with developing an action plan for their restoration and identifying additional rivers that may require attention.
In an effort to address the water conservation challenge, the Centre will launch a campaign from June 1 to June 7, which Uttarakhand will actively support. Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has underscored the urgency of water conservation and has directed the implementation of rainwater harvesting and solar energy initiatives in government buildings.
The government has acknowledged the persistent challenges in providing sufficient drinking water and has emphasized the need for comprehensive preparations to mitigate the crisis.
