Abstract: The world’s per capita available fresh water is declining and the water shortage is getting serious owing to a combination of factors including population growth,water pollution,inadequate management of cross-border waters,inefficient operation of water supply and demand system. To avoid potential water crisis,we need new ways of thinking and attitude to deal with water problems,and to find more scientific,more efficient strategies for water planning,production,configuration,conservation and management. In the present research,the availability of world’s freshwater resource and the water withdrawal and consumption are reviewed. Some of the main factors that complicates the water problem in the future are highlighted. Some tentative comprehensive measures to control the future water crisis and realize the sustainable use of water are given.

Key words: water crisis , water resources , integrated water resource management , education , publicity