World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a
means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for
the sustainable management of freshwater resources.
The
water is a finite and vulnerable resource under mounting pressure. Around the
world, freshwater resources are threatened by climate change, urbanization,
population growth, pollution and other drivers of change. Analysis suggest that
by 2030 demand for freshwater will outstrip supply by 40 percent. Between 2000
and 2050, the number of people living in river basins under severe water stress
is expected to more than double, reaching almost 4 billion people. While too little
water can have devastating effects on humanity, too much water can also be
fatal. In recent decades, the frequency and intensity of water-related
disasters such as floods and droughts have been rising substantially, claiming
the lives of millions of people and damaging the economies of many countries.
Celebrations and events are taking place worldwide. The
programmes of the day may include inspirational speeches, presentations, panel
and thematic discussions, and a series of public shows on the theme of water
cooperation. However, the need of the
hour is ensuring that everyone enjoys the right to sustainable water, safe
toilets and hygiene education, which will yield huge dividends in the fight to
eliminate poverty. To accomplish this, World Water Day is an opportunity for us
to urge stronger cooperation between governments, NGOs, foundations, corporations
and Citizens. It demands sufficient political commitment, innovative
partnerships, whole hearted participation of citizens, integrated approaches
and carefully directed financial investment.
Reference: High-Level Interactive
Dialogue of the UN General Assembly on Water Cooperation, At the
occasion of World Water Day, Friday, 22 March 2013
