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MANILA, September 2, 2024 (Xinhua via COMTEX) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) on Monday approved 93.6 million U.S. dollars in loans and grants to improve and expand climate-resilient and [...]

The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) approved various development projects costing billions of rupees with Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar in the chair. The ECNEC considered and approved a project of the Ministry of Water Resources titled "Umbrella PC-I of the Flood Protection Sector Project-III (FPSP-II)" at the updated cost of Rs194,625.00 million including FEC of Rs10,862.94 million. The ECNEC also considered and approved a project of the Ministry of Communications titled "Construction f Lahore Sialkot Motorway (LSM) link Highway (04-Lane) connecting LSM to Narang Mandi and Narowal (73-kilometer approximately)" at the revised rationalized cost of Rs. 36,814.347 million without FEC on 50:50 cost-sharing basis by the federal and provincial governments. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on Ellis County Commissioners discussing a resolution to regulate biosolids, originally proposed by the late Paul Perry, due to concerns about contamination affecting water resources and livestock.

The article reports on how the water supply shortages in corn farms could hinder the plan by U.S. airlines to power their planes with corn-based ethanol and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Also cited are how the said plan could bolster the finances of farmers and ethanol producers in the Corn Belt area but damage groundwater as a key water source and the steps taken by airlines like United Airlines and Delta to advance their plans.

The Odisha government has announced plans to construct 75,000 kilometers of world-class roads over the next five years in order to improve commuter experience and safety. Various state departments have been assigned specific targets for the project, with the Rural Development Department responsible for building the largest portion of 30,000 kilometers. Other departments involved include the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, the Works Department, the Water Resources Department, the Housing and Urban Development Department, and the National Highways Authority of India. In addition, the Ministry of Railway has sanctioned funds for the final survey and Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) of two new rail line projects in Chhattisgarh, which are expected to boost development in the Bastar and Surguja regions. [Extracted from the article]

VA Tech Wabag, a company based in Bengaluru, has secured a repeat order worth about Rs 415 crore from the Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewage Board. The order is for the operation and maintenance of a desalination plant in Chennai for a period of 7 years. In addition, 32 projects with a cumulative installed capacity of 56,679 MT per annum have been completed under the Production Linked Incentive Scheme for the promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting Materials and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients in India. The scheme aims to reduce import dependence and improve the country's supply chain resilience. [Extracted from the article]

The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI) reported a 38.14% increase in its Profit After Tax (PAT) to ₹ 436.03 crore in fiscal year 2024. SECI also noted an increase in total income to ₹ 13,135.80 crore in FY24. The corporation observed a 22.13% rise in its annual trading volume, totaling 42,935 million units of electricity traded during the year. India aims to generate 856 GW of solar power by 2047, accounting for 46% of its total power capacity, according to a report by NITI Aayog. The construction of a 60 MW solar power plant in Khargone, Madhya Pradesh, is expected to be completed by the end of the year. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports on updates in the operation of oil companies in the U.S., particularly the growing water requirements for firms like BP in their bid to frack for fossil fuels like oil and gas. Based on the journal's data, the water usage of fracking wells rose by 7-fold since 2011. Also cited is the comment of Texas A&M University's Peter Knappett on the developments.

The article delves into a Department of Investigation (DOI) report detailing the missteps leading to the water contamination scare at New York City Housing Authority's Jacob Riis Houses in September 2022, attributing the incident to a lab error and inadequate oversight by NYCHA. It states that the investigation sheds light on the erroneous testing that falsely detected arsenic in the water supply, resulting in a multi-day crisis for residents.

The article reports on the water crisis in Mexico City, Mexico due to climate change, urban sprawl, poor infrastructure and vulnerability to droughts. It informs the low capacity of the Cutzmala water system, low water level at a reservoir, pipe leaks that caused water loss, and the lack of water supply in areas including the Iztapalapa borough of working class community. Government efforts to address the water crisis include digging of wells and construction of a tunnel to take wastewater.

The article outlines Core Systems Manager Ron Blacksmith's efforts to obtain federal funding from the U.S., Bureau of Reclamation for infrastructure projects targeting enhancements to the Oglala Sioux Tribe Rural Water Supply System, highlighting the importance of improving water supply reliability.

Residents in Ellis County, Texas have been under a boil order since July due to issues with the water supply. The South Ellis County Water Supply Corp., a nonprofit utility system, has not yet determined the cause of the problem, but it is suspected to be a leak or leaks along the water line. The company has been manually searching for the issue and using a drone to assist in locating the leak. There is currently no timeframe for when the boil order will be lifted. [Extracted from the article]

The article highlights a federal report on the threat to U.S., Long Island's drinking water supply due to increasing saltwater intrusion caused by excessive groundwater pumping, which could lead to severe consequences for local communities.

Dr. Muhammad Bashir Lakhani is a highly respected Water Resources Expert in Pakistan, with over 30 years of experience. He has a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering from NED University and advanced degrees in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Arizona. Dr. Lakhani has conducted research on high-efficiency irrigation systems for arid regions and has played a significant role in various water sector projects in Pakistan, including water resources, irrigation, and agricultural development projects in Balochistan and KPK. He has also contributed to policy development and technical assistance in the water sector and is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of water resources professionals through internships and mentorship programs. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on increased security at two German military bases due to possible sabotage and includes water contamination at a German Army base, an attempted break-in at a NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) base, and the military's response to these incidents.

Miramar Reservoir in San Diego has reopened for water recreation after a months-long closure for the installation of a new underwater pipeline. The reservoir has undergone significant improvements and will now receive purified water from the North City Pure Water Facility. Miramar Reservoir is an important component of San Diego's water supply system and offers boating and paddling opportunities. The reopening allows visitors to once again enjoy the lake's beauty and engage in water activities. [Extracted from the article]

India's economy is at risk due to water shortages, which are affecting both rural and urban areas. The shortages are disrupting agriculture and industry, leading to food inflation and social unrest. The government plans to triple waste water recycling and reduce reliance on the monsoon. Private enterprises are also addressing the crisis, with some industries investing in waste water recycling and rain harvesting. The government is adding sewage treatment capacity and investing in water distribution and reuse. The cultivation of water-intensive crops like rice is a major contributor to the water crisis, and the government plans to implement a nationwide rural program on water use. [Extracted from the article]

India's economy is at risk due to water shortages, which are affecting both rural and urban areas. The shortages are disrupting agriculture and industry, leading to food inflation and social unrest. The government plans to triple waste water recycling and reduce reliance on the monsoon. However, experts warn that the agriculture sector, which uses a significant amount of water, needs to adopt more efficient irrigation methods. Private enterprises are also addressing the crisis through initiatives such as sewage treatment and waste water recycling. [Extracted from the article]

S.S. Water Supply Corp. has implemented Stage II drought restrictions due to excessive water usage and a booster pump failure. These restrictions will be in place until October 31, unless otherwise advised. The restrictions include limiting lawn and landscape watering to one day per week, with no irrigation allowed between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Handheld watering and drip-irrigation systems are allowed. These restrictions do not apply to the city of La Vernia, which has its own water system. The text also outlines water conservation measures, such as restrictions on washing vehicles and filling pools on designated watering days. Violating these measures can result in penalties, ranging from written notices to fines and flow restrictors. Customers are encouraged to moderate their water use due to high demand. For more information, customers can contact S.S. Water Supply. [Extracted from the article]

The Tibetan Plateau, known as the "water tower" of Asia, supplies freshwater for nearly two billion people who live downstream. According to the researchers, despite its importance, the impacts of climate change on past and future terrestrial water storage (TWS) -- which includes all the above- and below-ground water -- in the Tibetan Plateau have largely been underexplored. In addition, he said, the absence of reliable future projections of TWS limits any guidance on policymaking, despite the fact that the Tibetan Plateau has long been considered a climate change hotspot. [Extracted from the article]

Sindh Energy Minister Imtiaz Shaikh has said that the provincial government was trying to bring Thar coal to work to meet the energy needs of the country so that the country could be saved from the economic crisis by saving a huge amount of money spent on the import of oil and gas. Shaikh met the officials of the Shanghai Electric Company at the energy department office. [Extracted from the article]

LANXESS, a global leader in specialty chemicals, has implemented several impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects in Jhagadia, Gujarat, with a focus on sustainability and community development. These initiatives include promoting renewable energy, providing vocational training, and conserving water resources. One of their key efforts has been the installation of solar panels and solar street lights in rural communities, schools, and hospitals, which not only reduce carbon emissions but also provide a sustainable source of electricity. India has also raised concerns about pharmaceutical pricing control in Australia, particularly regarding generic medicines, during a recent bilateral meeting between the two countries. The commerce ministry has stated that the two sides will work together to resolve market access issues and deepen people-to-people contacts. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports that Gaza is approaching famine level, according to the United Nations. Topics discussed include the isolation of Gaza following the Israeli military's air and ground assaults in response to the attacks by Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, the limited amount of food, water and supplies entering Gaza, and Israel's denial of allegations that it is responsible for the food shortage in Gaza.

The article explores the existence of vast underground aquifers, emphasizing their significance as a crucial water resource threatened by reckless energy development.

Industries and Production Division - Rs 2,850 million Information and Broadcasting Division - Rs 2,100 million Information Technology and Telecom Division - Rs 6,330.696 million Inter-Provincial Coordination Division - Rs 3,472.420 million Interior Division - Rs 9,093.009 million Law and Justice - Rs 1,813.892 million Maritime Affairs Division - Rs 3,465.378 million Narcotics Control Division - Rs 207.917 million National Food Security and Research Division. - Rs 10,129.134 million National Health Services - Rs 12,650.997 million National Culture and Heritage Division - Rs 550 million Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission- Rs 25,990.602 million Pakistan Nuclear Regulatory Authority - Rs 289.890 million Petroleum Division - Rs 1,480.509 million Planning, Development - Rs 42,176.535 million Poverty Alleviation Rs 500 million Railway Division - Rs 32,648.036 million Religious Affairs Division - Rs 600 million Revenue Division - Rs 3,188.639 million Science and Technology - Rs 5,716.394 million SUPARCO - Rs 7,395.01 million Water Resource Division - Rs 99,572.465 million National Highway Authority - Rs 118,403.402 million NTDC/PEPCO - Rs 43,133.262 million ERRA - Rs 500 million Viability Gap Fund - Rs 73,000 million. - Rs 2,200 million Establishment Division - Rs 900 million Fed Edu and Professional Training Division - Rs 7,239.597 million. [Extracted from the article]

Syed Murad Ali Shah, Sindh Chief Minister called all critical officers of the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) along with his team and decided to launch a vigorous operation against water theft so that water could be supplied to the starving areas of the city. How to ensure that each and every area of Karachi gets water continues to be a headache for the Sindh government and it, yet again, forced him to launch a drive against water steelers. [Extracted from the article]

Since Para-2 of the accord is not being implemented, due to shortage of water, Sindh asserts, the construction of the Greater Thal Canal could potentially exacerbate water shortages in Sindh. The Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) approved the second phase of the Greater Thal Canal despite reservations of Sindh which claims the project would severely affect the availability of water in the province. [Extracted from the article]

The Philippines plans to install solar panels on Laguna Lake, the largest source of freshwater fish in the country, in order to meet the growing demand for electricity and transition to clean energy. However, this plan is facing opposition from fishermen who rely on the lake for their livelihoods. Concerns have been raised about the potential hazards of the project, including reduced fishing yields, damage to docks, and the risk of panels becoming untethered during strong typhoons or rising water levels. While some fishermen support the project, others are skeptical and worry about its impact on their communities. The government aims to produce 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2040. [Extracted from the article]

According to a report published in the Nature Journal, experts are concerned about a potential 14-16% decline in global agricultural production over the next three decades due to extreme heat and water crises. This could lead to an increase in the number of food insecure people, with estimates reaching 1.36 billion by 2050. The impact of climate change in India is particularly worrisome, as it may result in a 16.1% decline in agricultural production by 2050. In an effort to address these challenges, Ayekart, an agrifood fintech platform, has partnered with Grameen Foundation India to provide their Ayekrishi platform and financial services to Farmer Producer Organisations, with a focus on marginalized communities, especially women. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on millions of people facing a "very serious" risk of water shortages due to low snowfall in the Himalayas, emphasizing the critical role of snowmelt as a water source for both mountainous regions and river valleys below.

The article focuses on Israel's innovations in water technology and agriculture. It highlights the transformation of desert landscapes into productive farmland through desalination, water recycling, and drip irrigation. It reports that Israel annually produces over 835 million cubic meters of safe drinking water through desalination plants, and it emphasizes the importance of trust-building efforts in managing water resources in the Middle East.

The article focuses on California's relief from potential drought concerns as the Sierra Nevada snowpack reaches 110 percent of average for early April, ensuring ample water supply in the months ahead, despite earlier worries of a dry winter.

International Water Management Institute (IWMI), WWF Pakistan, Government of Punjab, UK High Commission, and other foreign agencies are collaborating in the implementation of this program. The first phase of "Water Resources Accountability in Pakistan" has been launched for strengthening the capacity to manage water resources at federal and provincial levels, supporting adaptation to climate change, and improving environmental sustainability. IWMI Country Director Dr Mohsin Hafeez, WWF-Pakistan CEO Hammad Naqi Khan, DG (On-Farm Water Management) Punjab Malik Akram, and others also spoke on the occasion. [Extracted from the article]