Protecting Drinking Water Sources: A Sub-Basin View

Ensuring universal access to safe drinking water is one of the more difficult development challenges for India as conflicting demands from various sectors commonly exceed water availability in many regions. Although nearly all the habitations have been provided with "safe" sources, access is limited, as drinking water sources under pressure from other demands are inadequate. Depletion of groundwater aquifers and water pollution threaten continued availability of drinking water. The prevailing institutions do not adequately protect drinking water, although policies accord the highest priority to meeting human and livestock needs. The recent introduction of drinking water protection legislation in two states could help if implemented.