With several parts of the state facing a water crisis, there is an urgent need to consider multiple ways of water conservation, and young Raipurites are doing their bit. While a group of engineering students have launched 'Save Water', a campaign in which they are forwarding picture messages and videos on social networking sites and giving lectures in public, another group has launched a door-to-door campaign requesting people to conserve water.
Engineering student, AshutoshSahu, believes that the water-related discussion can be taken to another level on social media. "We launched the campaign five weeks ago. As people are responding positively, our work has been increased fourfold. We are managing five groups on a chat app. We are also visiting schools and delivering lectures and interaction sessions in different languages, besides spreading messages at bus stops, temples and residential colonies. We also make short videos of the sessions and circulate them," Ashutosh shares. "I was added on the chat group last week and I consider it my social responsibility to spread these messages to as many people as I can," says Ritu Jain, a fashion design student. "When the organising committee visited our school, they delivered an impressive lecture," says Vinata Jacob, a teacher. "During the lecture, one of the speakers said that if there was no water for one day, it would result in water riots. The audience agreed with the speaker and wished them success," she adds.
Abhyankar Nagarkar, a PhD scholar and his five friends, visit houses and acquaint residents on how to limit their water usage. "We set a target number of houses and encourage people to not even waste ice cubes. We also take suggestions," Abhyankar says. "When Abhyankar discussed his idea I warned him of the hassles connected to it, but I was happy to see his enthusiasm. My group, in association with Abhyankar, is planning to launch a state-wide campaign on water conservation," says Amreesh Tiwari, an NGO worker, signing off.
These are a few suggestions Abhyankar's group makes: Limit lawn and garden watering. Water your garden with a watering can instead of hose pipe. Watering plants early morning and late afternoon will reduce evaporation and save water.
Turning the water off while washing your hair, brushing or shaving can save a lot.While washing dishes, fill one sink with soapy water. Then quickly rinse under slow-moving water.Do not use water to defrost food. Defrost food overnight in the refrigerator or by using the defrost setting on your microwave.
Fix your leaks. A dripping tap can waste 15 litres of water a day.Avoid flushing the toilet unnecessarily.
