HUL376 Essay Assignment – 1 [10 Marks; 1000 words] Your name: Pranjal Sachan City 1 of India: Bhopal Population: 2,565,000(2023) Density of population: 6,290/km² Duration: 75 minutes Entry No: 2020EE30615 City2 of Spain: Madrid Population: 6,751,000(2023) Density of population: 5,514/km² Water, the potion of life, sustains ecosystems, economies, and livelihoods in all corners of the world. Yet, its management and distribution pose complex challenges, evident in the contrasting contexts of Bhopal and Madrid. As the water-related issues in these two cities are explored, one finds a narrative shaped by government reforms and societal responses to the problems of water scarcity and pollution. In Madrid, water scarcity looms primarily against the backdrop of climate change. Three consecutive years of below-average rainfall and record-high temperatures have worsened the situation, leading to declining reservoir levels and heightened concerns over water security. Conversely, Bhopal, a city scarred by the tragic incident of the Union Carbide gas leak, has water woes rooted in industrial pollution and inadequate governance mechanisms. Hundreds of tons of toxic waste dumped by Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) within their factory premises from 1969 to 1984 have not yet been cleared by authorities, despite court orders and warnings leading to severe groundwater contamination. Another example of negligence is seen in the dumping of cluster bombs in the Ajnal River (a tributary of Narmada River) instead of proper scientific disposal as demanded by environmentalists. Coupled with flawed policies, poor upkeep, and mismanagement of water supply, most of the water issues in Bhopal seem to be man-made. In the face of water scarcity, Madrid's ambitious initiatives, such as constructing Spain's first green hydrogen plant utilizing recycled water, are an innovative response to water scarcity through sustainable technology and resource optimization. On the other hand, Bhopal's journey towards water security is marked by grassroots activism and community resilience, demanding accountability from government and corporate entities responsible for the water crisis. Not only in Bhopal, but activism also plays a role in Madrid; climate activists like members of Extinction Rebellion raise awareness about the environmental impact of activities like golfing, which consume vast amounts of water amid drought conditions. Also, in the case of Bhopal, it becomes imperative to recognize water as a bio-political entity entangled with power, access, and justice issues. The right to water emerges as a fundamental human right, demanding concerted efforts to safeguard the interests of vulnerable communities. The Bhopal Municipal Corporation's failure to deliver uniform and adequate water supply to its 19 zones with almost 23 lakh residents highlights the importance of the state in managing water resources, thus necessitating transparent governance structures and robust regulatory frameworks. A positive development is the emergence of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which provides justice and bolsters the stand against water pollution. The NGT has prohibited the operation of cruise boats in the Upper Lake (Bhojtal) near Bhopal since running a cruise boat in a water body is an operation that is likely to discharge sewage or trade effluent into the stream. While Madrid and Bhopal navigate through distinct causes of water scarcity, common threads of governance, activism, and sustainability weave through their narratives. Both cities are trying to balance economic development with environmental conservation, recognizing water as a finite resource that demands careful planning. Madrid's proactive approach to water management, bolstered by technological innovation and strategic planning, sets an example for other urban centers grappling with similar challenges. Conversely, Bhopal's journey towards water security is a testament to the power of community mobilization and grassroots advocacy in creating meaningful change. It may appear that Madrid is excelling in managing its water crisis compared to Bhopal, it's essential to consider that Madrid is a developed city with access to advanced infrastructure and financial resources. Additionally, Madrid benefits from its unique geographical location, nestled amidst a national park and mountain range known as the Sierra of Guadarrama; this protective environment provides fresh air and ensures a supply of clean water for the city. On the other hand, Bhopal, a city in a developing country, faces challenges from historical industrial pollution, inadequate infrastructure and governance mechanisms, and socioeconomic disparities. As one reflects on the water dynamics of Bhopal and Madrid, it becomes evident that the quest for water security exceeds geographical boundaries and cultural contexts. Whether in the busy streets of Madrid or the bustling markets of Bhopal, safeguarding water resources for future generations remains the priority. By embracing innovation, encouraging collaboration, and ensuring sustainability, cities around the world can work towards creating a more sustainable and equitable future. Bhopal news articles https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/39-years-after-the-bhopal-gas-tragedy-watercontamination-worries-survivors/article67598837.ece https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/harda-blast-environmentalist-demands-scientificdisposal-of-debris https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/ngt-bans-cruise-boat-in-upper-lake-wetlandsof-mp/articleshow/103619938.cms https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/bhopal-struggle-for-fresh-water-supply-continuesmore-than-30-city-population-getting-potable-water-on-alternate-days https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhopal/flawed-policies-poor-upkeep-how-taps-in-cityare-going-dry-one-after-the-other/articleshow/91058924.cms Madrid news articles https://www.pv-magazine-india.com/2023/05/26/madrid-to-generate-green-hydrogen-usingrecycled-water-pv-biogas/ https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/03/extinction-rebellion-plugs-holes-on-10spanish-golf-courses-in-water-protest https://www.themayor.eu/en/a/view/what-madrid-is-doing-to-save-water-part-2-5840 https://www.euronews.com/2021/06/03/the-mountain-range-protecting-madrid-from-pollution https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/subway-train-lines-roads-closed-in-madridcentral-spain-after-heavy-rain-101693813587776.html https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/travel/spain-hit-by-extreme-drought-amidheatwaves-heres-what-tourists-should-know-101689240935815.html
