Water conservation a challenge in Ernakulam

A study conducted by Haritha Keralam Mission as part of preparing water budget for local bodies in Ernakulam found that water availability in Kochi Corporation remained in surplus for most of the year but fell into deficit from late November to early May.

The water budget prepared for 96 local bodies, including the Kochi Corporation, revealed that the biggest challenge in most parts of the region is not water availability but the failure to conserve water.

The company’s total water need is 93.48 million cubic meters and water availability is 116 million cubic meters. The report stated that the difference of 22.52 million cubic meters showed that there was much more water available than needed.

According to the report, the Authority experienced water shortage from the last 10 days of November to the first 10 days of May.

“The water budget is prepared based on water availability and usage in a region. It compares water availability and demand over a 10-day period from June of one year to May of the next year,” said Renjini S.

“Rain is the main source of water and the real challenge lies in conserving the water received in this way. The water budget prepared by calculating the difference between water availability and consumption during the June-May water year in each local institution will help local institutions better plan their conservation strategies.”

He added that over-reliance on water supplied by the Kerala Water Board not only puts pressure on supply networks but also leads to neglect of other resources such as wells and water bodies. “This points to the urgent need to revitalize water bodies and ensure their protection,” he added.

He added that the demand from sectors such as domestic use, agriculture, animal husbandry, industry and tourism is taken into account to determine the water need. The water budgeting exercise was carried out by Haritha Keralam Mission in association with local bodies and various departments. The Water Resources Management and Development Center provided technical guidance and support to the exercise.