Access to clean water is considered a basic human right, but I strongly disagree with the idea that every household should receive water free of charge. Although free access may seem like a positive development, it can create serious problems, especially the risk of water shortage.
To begin with, if the government provides unlimited free water to every home, people will start using it carelessly. When something has no cost, citizens usually consume more than they need. Many people already do not appreciate the value of water, even though clean water is limited. If water becomes completely free, the consumption will increase dramatically, which can lead to a shortage. Without enough water, human life becomes impossible, and not only humans but all living creatures depend on water to survive. As our ancestors used to say, “water is life.”
From my perspective, instead of making water free, governments should increase the price or introduce a system that encourages responsible use. When people pay a fair amount for water, they are more likely to value it and use it in a more economical way. Higher prices would motivate citizens to avoid wasting fresh water, which is essential for protecting this precious natural resource.
To conclude, although access to clean water is a basic human right, this does not mean that it should be provided free of charge. Free water supplies may lead to overuse and eventually to a shortage of clean water.