Water Stress in Maharashtra: Challenges, Disparities, and Sustainable Solutions
Context:
Maharashtra declared drought in various parts of the state, notably affecting Marathwada where rainfall was less than 75% of the average.
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- This led to widespread dry wells and the deployment of water tankers for drinking and irrigation purposes.
- Multiple reservoirs in Beed and Dharashiv districts reported 0% live water storage, indicating severe water scarcity in these areas.
- Coastal regions of Maharashtra experienced excessive rainfall, causing severe flooding, highlighting stark disparities in water availability and management within the state.
Historical Context:
- India’s diverse climates, agroecological features, and human activities contribute to complex water management challenges, exacerbated by climate change.
- Marathwada has faced recurring droughts over the past decades, significantly impacting agriculture and livelihoods.
- Factors contributing to the region’s predicament include its geographical location, topography, soil type, agricultural practices, and crop choices.
- The need for tailored adaptation measures that address specific regional risks and community needs is critical.
Factors that cause Regional Disparities & Water Stress in Maharashtra:
- Diverse Climatic Conditions:
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- Coastal Flooding vs. Marathwada Drought: Maharashtra experiences contrasting water conditions due to its diverse climate. Coastal areas get heavy rain, causing floods, while Marathwada faces droughts from lack of rain.
- Geographical and Climatic Factors:
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- Rain-Shadow Effect: Marathwada lies in the rain-shadow of the Western Ghats, receiving much lower rainfall (600-800 mm annually) compared to the western side (2000-4000 mm).
- Climate Change Impact: Climate change exacerbates drought severity and frequency in central Maharashtra, making regions like Marathwada increasingly vulnerable.
- Agricultural Practices and Water Demand:
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- Sugarcane Cultivation: Sugarcane, a water-intensive crop, dominates agricultural practices in Marathwada despite low rainfall suitability (requires 1500-2500 mm annually).
- Impact on Water Resources: Sugarcane cultivation consumes 61% of irrigation water in the region, affecting the availability of water for other crops and causing reduced river outflows.
Key Challenges:
Soil Composition Challenges:
- Clayey Black Soil: Marathwada’s predominant regur soil retains moisture well but has low infiltration rates, leading to water runoff and inefficient groundwater recharge.
- Dam Construction: Maharashtra has the highest number of large dams in India (1845), aiming to capture runoff but also facing challenges with silt accumulation.
Lessons from Ahmednagar: Managing Water Scarcity and Abundance Drought Impact and Recovery: Shift in Agricultural Practices: Sustainable Development Strategies:
Challenges in Conservation:
- Issues such as silt accumulation in water conservation structures require innovative solutions and periodic maintenance under schemes like the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme.
- Regional Water Availability: Valleys in Marathwada have perennial groundwater due to better hydrogeological conditions, while uplands face seasonal water scarcity with drying wells post-monsoon.
Key Policies & Recommendations:
- Supply-Side Solutions:
- Implementing watershed management techniques like contour trenches, check dams, and earthen bunds to conserve rainwater effectively.
- Managing Water Demand:
- Water-Efficient Practices: Promoting water-efficient irrigation techniques and cultivating drought-resistant crops to manage water demand effectively.
- Diversification of Crops: Shifting from water-intensive crops like sugarcane to horticultural crops suitable for low-rainfall regions to enhance water use efficiency.
- Long-Term Sustainability:
- Advocating for sustainable agricultural policies that balance economic interests with environmental sustainability, ensuring resilience against future climate challenges in Marathwada.