Strategies of Sustainable Management of Water Resources in the Global South

Water is a crucial and abundant natural resource that sustains life on Earth and plays a critical role in the economic and social progress of humanity. There is a significant increase in demand for it, particularly in the Global South, as a result of population growth, urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural advancements. Irrigation constitutes about 80% of the overall water demand, whereas domestic consumption amounts for approximately 10%. Consequently, the rate of water consumption is increasing at a rate that exceeds twice the rate of population increase. Moreover, there are significant fluctuations in water supply, both on a seasonal basis and from year to year. Moreover, the present patterns are no longer advantageous for agriculture, which happens to be the sector with the highest water demand. This is due to an increasing demand for water in the industrial and residential sectors. Hence, it is highly likely that a demanding circumstance will arise in the near future to address the crucial water requirements of both humans and animals while mitigating the harm to the environment. The deterioration of water quality is a significant concern as it diminishes the accessibility of drinkable water as a result of the direct release of sewage water (90%) into rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. Hence, it is imperative to formulate a well-defined and comprehensive strategy to enhance water resources and effectively manage their utilization in the developing countries. To enhance the value and productivity of water in the Global South, it is important to implement comprehensive strategies. These strategies should include assessing the water balance by considering factors like groundwater recharge and runoff harvest. Additionally, water usage should be regulated based on sensitivity and necessity, and this can be achieved through public awareness. Furthermore, promoting various uses of water, such as wastewater treatment and reuse of treated water, is also crucial.