This harsh reality highlights the struggles women face in this Haryana district. The 5 km trek for fresh water is a daily grind, exacerbated by the dry climate and severe scarcity. The taboo that fetching water is solely their responsibility is a stark reminder of the deep-seated gender biases prevalent in the area. The lack of access to clean water not only affects their health but also their overall well-being and opportunities for education and personal growth. It’s alarming that such a burden falls on women, limiting their potential and perpetuating inequality.

Water scarcity in Nuh, Haryana, is a harsh reality that’s deeply intertwined with gender inequality. Women bear the brunt, fetching water from kilometers away, impacting their health, well-being, and future. They face anemia, musculoskeletal disorders, and mental stress due to water-fetching duties, while pregnant women are at risk of complications and poor menstrual hygiene leads to infections. Girls miss school, standing in queues for water, perpetuating inequality, and women’s productivity and income-generating potential suffer, reinforcing socioeconomic disparities. Deep-seated biases assign women household roles, limiting their growth and opportunities. It’s time to address these interconnected issues and ensure access to clean water and sanitation, promote education and awareness, challenge stereotypes, and empower women to pursue opportunities.

Efforts to address this issue should focus on providing sustainable solutions, such as installing water purification systems and accessible water sources, promoting awareness about water conservation and management, encouraging community participation in water resource management, and empowering women to take leadership roles in water management initiatives. Breaking this taboo requires a collective effort from the community, local authorities, and organizations. It’s time to recognize the value of women’s time and contributions, ensuring they have access to basic necessities like clean water.

Devika P is a PhD scholar in Social Work, specializing in Social Development at Central University of Karnataka. She is passionate about understanding and addressing social issues, and committed to creating positive change.

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