The Urgent Need to Find a Long Term Solution to Drinking Water Scarcity

The Urgent Need to Find a Long Term Solution to Drinking Water Scarcity

The large size of the population and its fast growth rate compounded by poverty and other social problems place a huge strain on the natural resources of Bangladesh. The adverse effects of uncontrolled population explosion are seen on the socio-economic fabric of the society. It also exerts terrific pressure on resources such as land, water, forests and fisheries.

The problems faced by the rural population of Bangladesh are its inability to access the benefits of the various development programs. The inequality in wealth distribution and access to productive resources continues to divide the country strongly on rural and urban lines. The government is unable to provide succor to the many problems faced by those living in the interiors. They are also hugely affected by the distinct lack of employment opportunities.

Another major concern of the government is the strain placed on its water resources because of the increasing population. Pollution of existing water bodies by industries and indiscriminate use of fertilizers and pesticides also contribute hugely to the problems of water shortage.

A growing population obviously means greater demand for food. This has forced the authorities to create measures for higher food production through advanced agricultural measures which in turn means the necessity for more water. To overcome this huge potential problem, it is necessary to manage population growth at the earliest.

Water related diseases are widely prevalent in Bangladesh. Infant mortality rates remain persistently high with 103 deaths reported per 1,000 live births. Common diseases prevalent in Bangladesh include diarrhea, dysentery, typhoid, worm infestation and measles. The main reason for water contamination is human excreta and other disease causing elements such as open sewerage pipes and damaged pipes carrying drinking water to household societies and communities.

The most terrifying piece of data provided by the World Health Organization is that gastroenteritis and diarrheal diseases kill 250,000 children less than five years of age annually. It also affects the young and the old and often results in long and extensive treatment regimen including hospitalization.

There are some active NGOs fighting exclusively for the cause of clean and potable drinking water in Bangladesh. They are playing an active role in highlighting the water related problems faced by the rural populace and has in the past forced the government into announcing remedial measures to mitigate the problem.