Despite the progress made in recent years, over two billion people around the world still lack access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation facilities. In an attempt to combat this crisis, many countries have banned open defecation, recognizing it as a key driver of waterborne diseases. However, as we will explore in this article, this approach alone is not enough to solve the water and sanitation crisis. Addressing the root causes of the problem requires a more comprehensive and integrated approach that addresses issues of water supply, sanitation infrastructure, behavioral change, and political will.
In the current era, water scarcity is becoming a major concern in many parts of the world. Among which, Indonesian province of East Nusa Tenggara is facing the worst water crisis in several areas due to the prolonged dry spell. The inhabitants of Rabeka village in the East Amarasi district of Kupang regency, have been gravely affected by the shortage of water. In the face of this critical situation, children of the village were spotted waiting in a long queue to collect water from the Fatufuaf well.
The scarcity of water has become increasingly severe in East Nusa Tenggara, leading to potential health hazards and economic setbacks. With the widespread devastation of crops and vegetation as a result of the prolonged drought, the livelihoods of many locals have become vulnerable. Alongside the severe deprivation of water resources, shortages of food and inevitable health problems have become increasingly prevalent. It is imperative to address the root cause of the problem and prevent such a crisis from escalating further.
Moreover, Rabeka village, located in a remote area, has little access to everyday facilities. The subsistence of the entire village relies mainly on agriculture, and the current scarcity of water has severely hindered their farming activities. Due to the shortage of water, the villagers are forced to walk long distances to get water from wells or other available resources. This has become an arduous task for women and children who are supposed to fetch water daily.
The district administration, in collaboration with the private sector, has taken various measures to resolve the water crisis. One of the primary objectives is to find new sources of water in the area, such as digging up new wells, to increase the availability of water in the region. The installation of rainwater harvesting systems and the cleaning and maintenance of existing wells is another strategy. It is essential for both the community and the government to develop long-term solutions to prevent such a crisis from happening again.
Furthermore, the impact of water scarcity on the community is significant. Children are often forced to skip school or drop out entirely to help their families with their daily necessities, including fetching water. Women and children are also affected by the water crisis concerning their health, as they are more susceptible to water-borne diseases. The lack of access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities leads to poor hygiene and disease outbreaks, further exacerbating the situation.
In conclusion, the water crisis in East Nusa Tenggara is a severe challenge that affects the livelihoods and wellbeing of the inhabitants of several areas. It is essential to understand the underlying causes and develop long-term solutions that promote sustainable water management practices. With that in mind, it is high time that concerted efforts be taken to address the water crisis and work towards a sustainable and equitable future for all.
