World Water Day is observed on March 22 since 1993 when the United Nations General Assembly declared March 22 as World Day for Water. Water scarcity is a reality and the future scenario is not very bright either. IYCN did the following activities for the World Water Day which ranged from raising awareness about the traditional water management systems to organizing fun games. A gist of the activities are reported as follows.
New Delhi
The traditional water management systems (Bawlis) found in Delhi have been built to tackle the water issues of the city and equip the city to survive during times of water scarcity. Due to population pressure and decreasing groundwater tables and human interference, the Bawlis have degraded over time. After continuous lobbying and a decade long legal battle by Mr. V.K. Jain (picture right) from Tapas NGO, the Government has taken conscience of the situation and renovating these Bawlis. The Archaeological Survey of India is the agency which is working on this. On 21st March, a visit to the Gandhak ki Bawli and Rajaon ki Bawli was organized. Dr. Kaushal from Kirori Mal College and Dr. Alok from JNU enlightened the participants about water and biodiversity. The Tanky Troopers, a group of young children staged a play which portrays the grim reality. On 22nd in association with the Social Transformation Organization, a rally was organized in the Batla house locality in Delhi raising awareness about the issues. We also tested the quality of water with some basic equipments we had the the results clearly showed that the water is unfit for consumption. Kids exploring the Gandhak ki Bawli Dr. Alok addressing the crowd Dr. Kaushal giving addressing
Hyderabad
A couple of members from the IYCN chapter in Hyderabad made a visit to Gurunadham lake near MIyapur in the city. The purpose of the visit was to document the existing state of the lake since various organiazations in the city came forward to rejuvenate this lake almost an year ago. A small report will be prepared to be distributed to members and necessary action will be sought to improve the lake's conditions.
Jaipur
On the occasion of International Forest Day (March 21st) and for the World Water Day on (March 22nd) Team RAKSHA (Revolutionary Action Conservation Society For Helping Animals), IYCN (Indian youth climate network) and COURSER(Conservation Of ultimate Resources To Save Environment) organized a Nature Trail at Jhalana Forest Area.
Other activities include participating in the activities organized by India water portal in Bangalore, organizing a fun dart game in Chennai and a door to door campaign and a awareness drive amongst the self help groups in Thanjavur in TamilNadu.