The Deadly Sins Of Modern Days

Water works!

- Chitra Doraiswami

Forget adultery! Even corruption takes a backseat. This can mean the end of life as we know it. The deadly sins are – wasting water, laying waste and ruining resources.

It is rightly said, “don’t just state problems, offer solutions too”, so here I go with some solutions that may help.

You already know you don’t leave leaking pipes and dripping taps alone. Try and solve those problems immediately. But, alas, plumbers are pricey procrastinators, so one has to wait patiently for them. Does that mean you leave leaks alone? By no means, slip buckets under leaks, utensils under taps and USE that water to water your plants, swab the floor, etc.

Immediately, right now, construct a rain water harvesting unit. The time to do it is now, before the rains. You may not be able to drink or cook with it but it can be used for washing clothes (by hand), swabbing floors and, at a pinch, wash your dishes too. And of course, water your plants.

No matter how small the balcony, start a garden. Maybe just herbs and a few easily-grown veggies. Methi, dhania, mint, dill, tulsi – all grow very quickly. Put pots on your window ledge and grow something there. Anything green makes you feel good. Even a small vertical garden on your balcony wall is lovely. Plus, it is a toothsome flavouring for most dishes. Organic as well.