Water & Wastewater Asia January/February 2024

IN THE FIELD
Many rivers and river
basins here are shared
by multiple countries,
which can lead to
disputes over the use
and management of
cross-border water
resources
in rainfall patterns due to climate
change have an impact on water
availability, the frequency and
intensity of extreme events such as
droughts and floods.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT,
GROUNDWATER
OVEREXPLOITATION AND POOR
INFRASTRUCTURE
Balancing economic development
and environmental conservation
is a major challenge for water
management in the region. The
economic development experienced
by South East Asia in the last
10 years has led to increased
demand for water and energy, which
in turn exacerbates water scarcity
and pollution problems.
In some areas, excessive
groundwater extraction for irrigation
and domestic use lead to aquifer
depletion and saltwater intrusion,
making water unsuitable for drinking
and agriculture. Additional measures
are essential, including programmes
to improve non-conventional water
sources, surface water storage, and
demand management.
Many parts of the region also
lack good water infrastructure
such as water treatment facilities,
distribution networks and drainage
systems, which affects access to
safe drinking water and increases
flood vulnerability. Asia accounts
for about half of the world’s bottled
water market which is a factor that
discourages investment in public
infrastructure.
POPULATION GROWTH, WATER
GOVERNANCE AND POLICIES
According to UN, approximately
three out of every five people in
the world live in Asia — which
represents 60% of the global
population — a figure that will remain
the same in 2050. The increase of
population and economic activities
in cities combined with rapid urban
development adds pressure on
water resources as the demand for
water increases. Additionally, yields
from irrigated agriculture need
to be increased, with 70% of water
resources being used for this type
of agriculture, causing greater water
scarcity.
Inconsistent water governance, lack
of integrated water management and
the overlap in responsibilities between
various agencies often hinder the
effectiveness of water management
strategies. Environmental policies
cannot be taken locally but must
be wide-ranging and take in the
complexity of ecological systems.
CONCLUSION
South East Asian countries need to
adopt water management approaches
that include implementing sustainable
policies, strengthening water
infrastructure, promoting water
conservation, efficient water use,
and regional cooperation to manage
cross-border water resources jointly.
In addition, public awareness and
the active participation of local
communities are crucial to achieve
more effective water management in
the region.
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