Last Updated on March 19, 2023 by SPN Editor
The State of Manipur is currently facing an ‘acute’ shortage of water due to many rivers running dry, leaving the residents of Imphal and other areas in dire straits due to water scarcity in Manipur. With the rising demand for water, many water tanker owners have been taking advantage of the situation by increasing the price of water.
Water scarcity in Manipur has caused much unrest and frustration amongst the locals who are already struggling to cope with the water scarcity. In light of this, people in Imphal and other areas have urged water tanker owners not to hike the price of water.
According to reports, the cost of water has gone up significantly in recent times. Earlier, 12,000 litres of water used to cost Rs 1,500 in areas under Imphal Municipal Corporation (IMC). However, now the price has increased to Rs 2,000 – Rs 2,500, which is a significant hike. In Greater Imphal areas, the same quantity of water is being sold at Rs 3,000, causing further distress to the residents.
It is essential to understand that water scarcity is not limited to Imphal alone. The town of Ukhrul also faces acute water scarcity for about three months every year. The residents of Ukhrul have to book 1,000 litres of water in advance at least one day ahead, and it costs them Rs 800.
This has caused a loss of Rs 5.4 crores every winter, which translates to 6 lakhs per day. More than 40 trucks, including water tankers, are supplying water in Ukhrul town, which indicates the severity of the situation.
The current water scarcity in Manipur has put a significant strain on the state’s economy and its people. However, there are ways to address the situation and alleviate the suffering of the residents.
Water conservation is a highly effective approach to address the water scarcity in Manipur. The populace of Manipur can make a significant impact by engaging in simple measures such as repairing leaky faucets, turning off taps when not in use, and employing water-efficient appliances. By doing so, they can decrease the demand for water and conserve it for critical purposes.
Rainwater harvesting is an additional effective method to conserve water. This technique entails the collection and storage of rainwater for future usage. Rain barrels and other water harvesting systems can be installed for this purpose. The accumulated water can be utilized for non-potable purposes such as gardening, car washing, and toilet flushing. This can notably reduce the requirement for water from other sources.
Water recycling is a highly effective method for addressing the water crisis. This technique involves the treatment of wastewater and the transformation of it into a reusable form. The treated water can be employed for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, cleaning, and industrial processes. This can help reduce the demand for water and preserve it for critical purposes.
Groundwater recharge is another technique that can be used to address the water scarcity in Manipur. This approach involves replenishing the groundwater by allowing rainwater to seep into the soil. Recharge pits or trenches can be constructed for this purpose. This can help replenish the aquifers and enhance the availability of groundwater.
