1.

Introduction

Water is the most important natural resource on Earth. It is the basis of life for all living beings -

humans, animals, birds, and plants. Without water, life cannot exist. Even though 71% of the Earth's

surface is covered with water, only a small portion (about 2.5%) is fresh and usable for drinking and

agriculture.

Water is used in almost every activity of human life, such as drinking, cooking, washing, cleaning,

farming, and industrial purposes. Plants use water in the process of photosynthesis to make their

food. Without water, no plant or crop can grow.

Water also helps in regulating the temperature of our body and the Earth. It maintains ecological

balance and supports aquatic life.

Thus, water is not just a natural resource - it is life itself. If water disappears, all life on Earth will

come to an end.
2. Objectives

Water is one of the most valuable resources on Earth, but many people are unaware of how quickly

it is being wasted. This project has been created with the following objectives:

1. To understand the importance of water in our daily life.

2. To study how and why water is wasted in homes, schools, and cities.

3. To explore both traditional and modern methods of saving water.

4. To encourage people to use water responsibly.

5. To suggest simple steps that every individual can follow to save water.

6. To spread awareness among students, families, and society.

Water plays a very important role in the life of all living beings. Every human, animal, bird, and plant

depends on water to survive. In fact, about 70% of the human body is made up of water.

Water is needed for drinking, cooking, bathing, cleaning, farming, and running industries. Plants use

water in the process of photosynthesis to make their food. Without water, no plant or crop can grow.

Water also helps regulate body temperature and maintain balance in nature. It supports aquatic life

and ecosystems.

Water is also sacred in many cultures and religions. Rivers like the Ganga and Yamuna are

considered holy and play a major role in rituals.

Water crisis means a situation where there is not enough clean water available for people's needs.

Today, many cities and villages in India and around the world are facing a serious water shortage.

In India, cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and Delhi face severe water scarcity during summer. Wells

and borewells are drying up, and tankers are used for water supply.

According to NITI Aayog, 21 Indian cities may run out of groundwater by 2030. Rivers are getting

polluted and drying up in some areas. Climate change, deforestation, and overuse are worsening

the problem.

If we do not take action, the future generations will suffer from a lack of clean water.
5. Causes of Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is mainly caused by human activities and some natural reasons. Below are the main

causes:

1. Overuse of Water

2. Wastage of Water

3. Pollution of Water Sources

4. Deforestation

5. Urbanization

6. Climate Change

7. Lack of Awareness

These causes must be stopped if we want to save water for the future.
6. Consequences of Water Wastage

When water is wasted, it creates many serious problems for people, animals, plants, and the

environment. Below are the major consequences:

1. Shortage of Drinking Water

2. Poor Health and Hygiene

3. Crop Failure and Food Shortage

4. Dry Rivers and Lakes

5. Economic Problems

6. Conflict and Migration

These consequences show why saving water is not a choice - it is a necessity.

India has a rich tradition of water conservation. Some traditional methods include:

1. Baolis (Stepwells)

2. Johads

3. Kunds

4. Ahar-Pyne System

5. Zabo System

6. Bamboo Drip Irrigation

These methods are eco-friendly and still useful today.

To solve water problems, modern methods are used:

1. Rainwater Harvesting

2. Drip Irrigation

3. Sprinkler Irrigation

4. Greywater Recycling

5. Dual-Flush Toilets

6. Water-Saving Taps

7. Smart Irrigation Systems

These methods help reduce water wastage and ensure future availability.
9. Role of Government and Laws

The government plays an important role in solving the water crisis. Some efforts include:

1. Jal Shakti Abhiyan

2. Namami Gange Project

3. Water Pollution Control Act, 1974

4. Atal Bhujal Yojana

5. Swachh Bharat Mission

6. Rainwater Harvesting Rules

People must follow these laws and support government efforts.

Communities and NGOs play a major role in saving water. Local efforts like cleaning ponds, fixing

wells, and building tanks help a lot.

Famous NGOs:

1. Paani Foundation

2. WaterAid India

3. Tarun Bharat Sangh

Schools, societies, and local leaders should also conduct awareness drives and water-saving

campaigns.
11. Case Study: Water in My Area

In my area, most families depend on tap water and borewells. In summer, water is supplied only

once a day. Few houses have rainwater harvesting.

Some people reuse water for gardening, but many still waste water while brushing or cleaning. My

school organized an awareness rally and encouraged students to save water.

This study shows that awareness is growing, but more action is needed.
12. Survey Conducted

I surveyed 10 families in my area to learn about water use:

- 6 families do not have water meters.

- 7 keep the tap running while brushing.

- Only 3 reuse water.

- 2 have rainwater harvesting.

- 4 reported leaking taps recently.

After I shared tips, some families promised to change their habits. Small awareness efforts can

create big changes.

Everyone can help save water:

Individuals:

- Turn off taps while brushing

- Fix leaks

- Use bucket instead of shower

- Reuse RO water

Schools:

- Conduct rallies

- Install water-saving taps

- Set up rainwater harvesting

Society:

- Make harvesting compulsory

- Plant trees

- Use recycled water

Saving water is easy if we make it a habit.

Water is life. Every drop is valuable. Through this project, I learned the causes of water scarcity and

how we can prevent it.

It is everyone's responsibility to save water. Even simple actions can make a big difference. Let us

remember:

'Don't Waste Water - It's the Source of Life.'

Books:

- NCERT EVS Textbook

- Maharashtra State Board Book

Websites:

- [Link]

- [Link]

- [Link]

NGOs:

- WaterAid India

- Paani Foundation

Surveys and discussions with local people also helped me complete this project.