The losses induced by insufficient water supply across China are more than twice as great as those caused by flooding, according to an official research.

 

A shortage of water causes an average 280 billion yuan (US$35 billion) in direct economic losses each year, suggests a report on the country's current status of water resources. The research was funded by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology.

 

The recently released results show that economic losses created by a lack of water are 2.5 times more than the losses incurred by floods. It also warns that the lack of adequate water supply will be a major impediment to the country's social and economic development over the next 30 years.

 

Expert analysis of the research shows that disputes over water supply, water pollution and uneven distribution of water resources challenge the government's goal of building a harmonious society.

 

Gao Zhong, a senior consultant on water resources, said that China's current public administration of the water supply is part of the problem. Responsibility for water is shared by the Ministry of Water Conservation, urban planning institutes, public affairs management departments and the environmental protection department.

 

"Such an administrative structure weakens the government's power of management in water distribution, pollution prevention and water conservation," said Gao.

 

The research experts have also examined the root causes of major water conflicts and made suggestions on reforming water administration.

 

(Xinhua News Agency February 18, 2006)