Towards Better Water Conservation Part II - How the world can better manage water resources

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In one of my recent discussions: I wrote as to the challenges that water shortages are posing in India, and measures to check this declining trend. Yet, water shortage is a prblem that is not specific to India. Whichever direction we see: Asian countries, European Mainland, cities in California or other places in United States, African countries, Australia, and perhaps even South American nations- we hear and read about water shortages. We hear about poor women trudging 5 to 6 kms every day to fill water. We read about drying river beds, or drought conditions. I believe lack of clean water is also causing diseases of various kinds. Why is it happening? Have we human beings grown too much in numbers? Well, partially that is true. Yet, weather changes bought by rapid urbanization and concretisation, fossil fuel emissions, and rapid deforestation are some of the main causes. Add to that developmental models that did not pay heed to conserving and judiciously using water until very recently. Could we think of some fast measures. Perhaps these could help: 1)A worldwide movement for rapid afforestation- each world family plants at least one plant sapling a year, if not more- not a big target and could start making a difference in few years. 2)Halt production of missiles, radars, fighter aircrafts, and other weapons- ideal, but think of how much water and other resources go into making such things and washing/cooling them, and the water conserved can be put to better use. Yet I think a few selfish people in the whole world won't let it happen. 3)Increase funding for better and more cost effective technologies for Desalination plants. 4)IMF and World Bank should give interest subisdies to countries and projects that demonstrate better and effective use of water resources. May be give an additional rebate of 3 to 5 %. Conversely, put a penalty of 5 to 7%(something like carbon offsets) for projects and countries that do not pay attentn to water resources and conserving them. 5)Ban Rain dance or similar activities across the world. This is much better than banning movies or TV shows that do not subscribe to certain views. Looks like a dictatorial move, but it will be for a good cause. I know that some of the above might seem idealistic- yet they are not impossible. And yes, we as the citizens of our respective nations can do our bit- small or high. Views?