"We Must Treat Every Drop Like It's the Last": Gauravv Saxena on Mumbai's Water Crisis

As concerns intensify over reports suggesting that Mumbai may have only around 40 days of water reserves remaining due to delayed monsoon rains and declining reservoir levels, entrepreneur and content creator Gauravv Saxena has urged citizens to view the situation as a critical reminder of the need for responsible water consumption and conservation.

Having lived and traveled extensively across Africa, Europe, and India, Gauravv believes the current crisis highlights a larger issue—society's growing disconnect from the natural resources that sustain everyday life. According to him, the situation should inspire immediate action and greater awareness among citizens.

Reflecting on the reports, Gauravv revealed that the first word that came to his mind was "urgency."

"Seeing reservoir levels drop to around 10% is deeply concerning. It serves as a powerful reminder of how dependent we are on nature, particularly the monsoon. A city as dynamic and resilient as Mumbai can become vulnerable much faster than we imagine. It quickly changes the conversation from convenience to survival," he said.

The entrepreneur noted that urban lifestyles often create a false sense of abundance when it comes to water. For many city residents, access to water has become so routine that they rarely consider the complex systems and natural processes required to deliver it.

"When you live in a metropolitan city, water feels like something that's always available with the turn of a tap. We seldom think about the journey it takes from reservoirs and catchment areas to our homes. That disconnect from the source often results in unconscious wastefulness," he explained.

Gauravv believes that meaningful change begins with simple, everyday actions. Rather than focusing solely on large-scale solutions, he advocates adopting practical habits that can collectively create a substantial impact.

"I've become increasingly conscious of invisible water waste. One habit I follow is reusing water from rinsing fruits and vegetables for plants instead of letting it go down the drain. It may seem insignificant, but if every household embraced just one such habit, the cumulative impact would be remarkable," he shared.

The entrepreneur also emphasized the role of public figures and content creators in promoting environmental awareness. However, he believes that the most effective advocacy comes through action rather than instruction.

"People connect more with authenticity than lectures. Through my platform, Beyond 9to5, I try to demonstrate that sustainability is not a burden but a lifestyle choice. When audiences see practical examples in daily life, they are more likely to adopt those habits themselves," he said.

When asked about one immediate change he would recommend to citizens, Gauravv encouraged people to monitor their water usage more consciously.

"I would ask everyone to conduct a personal water audit for just one day. Observe every moment when water is running unnecessarily—while brushing, washing dishes, or completing routine tasks. Once you become aware of the waste, reducing it becomes much easier. Awareness is always the first step toward meaningful change," he noted.

Addressing Mumbai's citizens directly, Gauravv delivered a message centered on unity, resilience, and shared responsibility.

"Mumbai has always been a city that stands together during difficult times. Right now, our city needs that spirit once again. The rains will arrive, but until then, we must treat every drop as if it were our last. This is not just a government issue—it is a community responsibility. Fix leaks, reduce unnecessary consumption, and encourage those around you to do the same. Together, we can make a meaningful difference until the clouds finally break."

As conversations around water security become increasingly important, voices like Gauravv Saxena's underscore the need for collective action, sustainable habits, and greater respect for natural resources. His message serves as a timely reminder that every small effort contributes toward safeguarding the future.