Water Requirement per Capita per Day in India

According to Indian Standards for domestic use, the water requirement per capita per day is 135 litres. This standard is set to ensure an adequate supply of water for various household activities, including drinking, cooking, bathing, sanitation, and cleaning. Let's explore the reasons behind this specific water requirement.

Reasons for the Water Requirement:
There are several factors that determine the water requirement per capita per day. These factors include:

1. Drinking and Cooking:
- On average, an individual consumes around 2-4 liters of water per day for drinking and cooking purposes.
- This estimate is based on the recommended daily intake of water for a healthy individual.

2. Bathing and Personal Hygiene:
- Bathing and personal hygiene activities require a significant amount of water.
- On average, a person uses about 15-30 liters of water during a bath.
- Additionally, water is also required for activities such as handwashing, face washing, brushing teeth, etc.

3. Sanitation and Cleaning:
- Adequate water supply is essential for maintaining proper sanitation and cleanliness.
- Flushing toilets, washing clothes, and cleaning households all require a considerable amount of water.
- On average, an individual may require around 50-80 liters of water for sanitation and cleaning purposes.

4. Miscellaneous Uses:
- Apart from the aforementioned activities, there are other miscellaneous uses of water in households.
- These include watering plants, washing vehicles, and other outdoor activities.
- These activities may vary depending on individual preferences and the availability of water.

Water Conservation:
While the water requirement per capita per day is set at 135 liters, it is important to note that water conservation practices should be followed to minimize wastage and ensure sustainability. Some measures to conserve water include:

1. Fixing Leaks:
- Promptly repairing any leaks in faucets, pipes, or toilets can significantly reduce water wastage.

2. Water Efficient Appliances:
- Using water-efficient appliances such as low-flow showerheads, faucets, and toilets can help conserve water.

3. Rainwater Harvesting:
- Collecting rainwater for various non-potable uses can reduce the strain on the main water supply.

4. Recycling and Reusing:
- Treating and reusing water for non-potable purposes like irrigation or flushing toilets can conserve water.

5. Awareness and Education:
- Spreading awareness about the importance of water conservation and promoting responsible water usage can have a significant impact.

Conclusion:
The Indian Standards for domestic water requirement per capita per day is set at 135 liters to ensure that individuals have access to an adequate supply of water for their daily needs. However, it is crucial to practice water conservation measures to minimize wastage and ensure the long-term sustainability of water resources.