Glaciers are shrinking quickly, particularly in the eastern and central Himalayas, which is likely to significantly reduce flows of water downstream. Water is revered in India and Nepal, and moving water, especially rivers, are considered sacred, life-affirming and purifying. Mussoorie in Uttarakhand, India, is a thriving example of the former colonial hill station towns so popular with local tourists. Yet levels are declining, thanks to a combination of factors, including reduced rainfall, the concreting of porous areas that previously filtered water into the basin and the town’s growing water demands. Water politics did influence the outcome – a new mayor was elected who is committed to locally sourcing affordable water for town residents.

Source: The Guardian December 27, 2017 06:56 UTC