Shifting monsoon patterns and drying catchment areas in India’s river basins, of which there are 20, combined with a growing population mean India’s water resources are on the decline.
India’s average annual per capita water availability has been falling — from 2,210 cubic metres in 1991 to 1,820 cubic metres in 2001 to 1,651 cubic metres in 2011, according to the Central Water Commission. Government estimates it will further fall to 1,486 cubic metres in 2021. Availability below 1,700.
“Once an award is given, what is the guarantee that states will implement it? There should be a penalty if they do not,” says Bharat Sharma, scientist emeritus, International Water Management Institute.
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