We all need to drink clean water because our body is composed of about 60% water and functions of these bodily fluids include digestion, absorption, circulation, creation of saliva, transportation of nutrients, and maintenance of body temperature. So, water is life, but if consumed unsafe and without sanitation, it can also kill.

Waterborne diseases are caused by pathogenic microorganisms that most commonly are transmitted in contaminated fresh water. Infection commonly results during bathing, washing, drinking, in the preparation of food, or the consumption of food thus infected. Waterborne illnesses are the second leading cause of death for children under five worldwide. Diarrhea caused by drinking unsafe water is a leading cause of illness and death among infants and children. We need to drink clean water so that germs do not enter our body. Even if water appear to be clean, they may carry germs. Water pick up micro-organisms (germs) in a number of ways. We can also get sick if we don’t use clean water before and after preparing food.

Of the 60 million people added to the world towns and cities every year, most move to informal settlements with no sanitation facilities. Millions of humans die each year from water, sanitation, and hygiene-related causes in Africa, Asia and South America. More than half of all primary schools in these countries do not have adequate water facilities and nearly as many lack adequate sanitation. Most sewage is discharged untreated, polluting rivers, lakes and coastal areas. More people have a mobile phone than a toilet, we all must rethink life. We all must work to restore access to clean water by promoting safe hygiene practices in schools and local communities.

Student Name: Atulya Panda, Mothers International School, Delhi
Email: atulya@sudhirpanda.com