Washington, 16 April (H.S.):

The World Bank has unveiled an ambitious plan to combat the global water crisis. Named 'Water Forward,' this program aims to provide safe and reliable water to one billion people over the next four years.

According to the World Bank, the initiative will strengthen water supply systems while enhancing resilience against disasters like droughts and floods. The Bank stated it will leverage its financial support and technical expertise to deliver improved water services to approximately 400 million people by 2030, with the remainder aided through partner institutions.

Several international organizations will participate, including regional development banks, the OPEC Fund for International Development, and the New Development Bank. However, the total investment amount for this initiative has not yet been disclosed.

The World Bank noted that nearly half the world's population—about four billion people—confronts water scarcity. Key factors include weak policies, inadequate regulations, and financially unstable water supply systems, which hinder investment and reform momentum.

Currently, 14 countries have committed to reforming and fortifying their water sectors under the program. Experts highlight that emphasizing governance and management improvements, beyond mere infrastructure, sets this initiative apart .

Expert David Mitchell described it as a positive step but cautioned that implementation could face significant challenges.

The World Bank asserts that robust water systems not only fulfill basic human needs but are also essential for economic growth, investment attraction, and job creation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar