My summer vacations are very memorable. This was the time when me and my siblings would take turns and put in two hours 'pumping' water in the evenings, 'cause that was the only time when the corporation of chennai would 'let' water into our pipes in scorching Chennai. This was 15 years back. Now, we don't have to pump or run behind the water tanker with colourful plastic pots. It's because the water is pumped using motor, several kilometers away in the outskirts of the city and bought and brought to our water tank using lorries. While staying abroad, I don't let my son use the tub. It is always a quick, but thorough shower. In Singapore, one pays for water consumed. I think the same should be implemented in Chennai and all other states. Just like electricity reading, water meter reading should also be done on a regular basis. This would reduce wastage, ensure equitable distribution, through equitable payment. Else, a household with two members would pay the same as a household with five members, who on top of consumption at home, would also enjoy the "benefits" of a swimming pool - yes, this is getting very common in Chennai! If the water bill is not paid, then reduce the water supply to the household (this can be done using a water trickling device inserted in the pipe supplying water to the household). Educate children on water conservation and not on waste disposal alone.
