Every drop counts

The Jammu and Kashmir government’s decision to rationalise Srinagar’s water supply system comes at an appropriate time. The revelation that nearly 40 per cent of treated drinking water is being used to irrigate lawns and gardens highlights a serious imbalance in the city’s water management. At a time when several localities continue to face irregular supply and depend on water tankers, such wasteful consumption cannot be ignored. Drinking water is a basic necessity, not a resource that should disproportionately serve aesthetic purposes. Treating, pumping and distributing potable water involves substantial public expenditure. Using it to maintain green lawns while households struggle to receive regular supply undermines both equity and efficiency. The ongoing rationalisation exercise must therefore focus on ensuring that domestic needs receive the highest priority. However, rationalisation should extend beyond regulating consumption. It must be accompanied by scientific planning, replacement of ageing pipelines, reduction of leakages, metering of bulk consumers, and promotion of water-efficient landscaping. Hotels, commercial establishments and large residential complexes should be encouraged to use recycled or harvested rainwater for gardening instead of treated drinking water. Public awareness is equally important, as conservation begins with responsible individual behaviour. Climate variability, shrinking water sources and growing urbanisation are placing unprecedented pressure on Srinagar’s water resources. The city can no longer afford outdated practices that encourage indiscriminate use. A comprehensive policy that combines infrastructure upgrades with demand-side management is essential to secure the future. The government’s initiative should not be viewed merely as an administrative exercise but as a long-term reform aimed at protecting a scarce resource. Water conservation is a shared responsibility. Rational use today will determine whether Srinagar can sustainably meet the needs of its growing population tomorrow.