Climate Change and Water Security in South Asia: A Qualitative Study of Vulnerability, Adaptation Strategies, and Community Responses

Abstract

The effects of climate change have made water insecurity a greater challenge in South Asia, by affecting hydrological cycles, raising environmental risks and driving up underlying socio-economic vulnerabilities. Some research has been conducted on the effects of climate change on the hydrology and environment, but this research had been limited and focused on a community-based perspective, including lived experience, local climate change challenges and adaptation. This study explored the societal and hydrological interactions between climate change, water security, adaptation options and institutional reactions in water vulnerable regions of South Asia in a community based approach. Qualitative multi case study approach through semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, field observations and document analysis with community members, farmers, water users, water and climate experts and policy makers. Thematic analysis revealed five closely related sub-themes related to water insecurity; climate induced water insecurity, community based adaptation, institutional constraints, social vulnerability and integrated socio-hydrological governance. The results show that water insecurity is not just the direct result of climatic variability but is a result of the synergistic effect of climatic variability, livelihood dependency, household practices and governance. The study highlighted the importance of formal adaptation process and need for community involvement. This study not only links the hydrological process to social realities, but also helps deepen the understanding of socio-hydrology and defines the context-sensitive climate adaptation strategy which is inclusive and equitable.