Water watchers step up efforts

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The summer’s been harsh, the water shortage acute. But a large number of Delhiites, including youngsters, designers, filmmakers and professionals, are emerging as the water warriors — they strongly feel the need to conserve water and besides doing their bit, are spreading the word and encouraging others to do the same.

Recently, chief minister Sheila Dikshit inaugurated a national workshop on rainwater harvesting and urged citizens to take it up. She was quoted saying, “Some 40 years ago, the groundwater levels in Delhi were so high that the water had to be pumped out to prevent seepage in buildings. Today, the groundwater level is alarmingly low in many places... I use half a bucket of water for bathing during the summer and ask my family members to follow suit.”
Reflecting on the gravity of the issue, advocate Arjun Natarajan says, “We all need to get into austerity mode in all walks of life and strive to unleash a better future. Water shortage, rise in petrol prices and other such alarming developments are various tips of various huge icebergs.”
Designer Anuradha Ramam says all it takes is good planning and practical use of water, especially in times of shortage. “Instead of a shower, I opt for a bucket bath. One can programme one’s thinking in such a way that usage of water is minimised. For example, don’t use a water hose to wash your car, or water the plants, use a bucket. Similarly, there’s no need to wash all the clothes on one day, divide it through the week. It’s important to instil similar thinking and habits among family members,” she says.
Anuradha adds, “In our profession, a lot of water is used for dyeing, painting and cleaning. Just a few days ago, I received a call from my karigars in West Bengal, who informed me that because there has been no rainfall, wells are dry and they are unable to wash the final products. I told them to stall washing for now. They are in dire condition and have no water even to drink unlike us who can hop across the road to buy water. As designers we have to act in a more responsible manner and set an example for people around us.”
Filmmaker Vandana Kohli not only preaches but also practices saving water. She says, “These may be small steps, but they go a long way. I open the tap to less than its capacity to brush my teeth or to wash dishes. Like Ms Dikshit, I opt for a bucket bath instead of a shower. My kids too do the same.”
Anjali Roy, media professional, makes it a point to save water in some way or the other. She says, “If cleaning the house needs three buckets of water, I make sure it’s done in one-and-half. We should find more innovative ways to save water.”
Randeep, a freelance photographer and resident of Rohini, has honed his art of water conservation to a fine degree. “I’ve done what even the CM hasn’t. I’ve mastered the art of taking bath with three mugs!”