I was honored to be a guest speaker at a special one-hour conference on water organized by the Pune Forum for Policy and Governance (PFPG), an influential advisory body to the government. My speech highlighted the critical nexus between water and public health, emphasizing the importance of clean, safe drinking water in preventing waterborne diseases.
Addressing the challenges of water management, I discussed issues like water scarcity, inequitable access, and water quality concerns. I advocated for sustainable solutions, including investing in robust water infrastructure, promoting conservation, and strengthening monitoring and regulations.
Moreover, I proposed the establishment of a groundbreaking “Water University” in India. This institution would offer interdisciplinary programs covering hydrology, engineering, public health, policy, and economics. The central campus would focus on core research, while satellite campuses in unique areas would address specific challenges like drought solutions, flood management, and urban water distribution.
The proposed study areas encompass hydrology, water engineering, policy and governance, climate adaptation, economics, and societal impacts. This innovative approach aims to address global water crises comprehensively, fostering research and collaboration across diverse fields and ensuring equitable access to clean water for all.
