Water is precious — don't waste it

I would like to draw attention to the water wasted in irrigating the green areas around Al Garhoud Bridge. I have noticed that the sprinklers operate during the day — when the sun is out.

A lot of water meant for irrigation is lost due to evaporation as a result of the heat during the day. In most other countries, sprinkler systems operate only during the early morning or after twilight to increase the efficiency of absorption. Many of the sprinklers also point outwards towards the road instead of pointing inwards. As a result, there is a lot of wasted water.

There should be a hotline where concerned residents can call in and report water wastage. If there is such a hotline, I am not aware of it, and efforts should be made to make the general public more alert about the issue.

Another area which requires attention is the water used in washing vehicles in parking lots.

Despite introducing water-free car washes, people still merrily wash their cars using a lot of water. I think we have to change our mindset and practise basic tips at home and outside. It is very easy to blame others, but very difficult to question yourself. "Am I helping to save water?" Does this question need to be on everyone's lips? At the same time, I would like to appreciate the steps taken by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) to raise awareness levels. The fact that they have three different tariff levels based on consumption is a step in the right direction.

I have been closely following the resolutions passed at the World Water Forum at Marseilles, France from March 12 to 17.

As part of a global youth group, we helped draft Youth For Action resolution on managing our water resources at this summit.

One of the issues that highlighted is the need to reduce contamination of ground water due to irresponsible waste disposal. In most underdeveloped countries, the problem is not so much of fresh water availability, but that of contamination which makes the water unfit for use. A lot of work needs to be done in this regard.

Thankfully, Dubai has a great effluent treatment system which manages to preserve and protect this precious resource quite well. Having celebrated World Water Day yesterday [March 22], we must mark this day with a pledge towards optimal water usage.

Many of the wars of the last century were for oil. The wars of the future may be for water if we are not careful.

— The reader is an 11-year-old pupil, based in Dubai

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