81. In spite of the progress achieved during the D8Cad8 with regard to operation and maintenance, further improvements will have to be brought about, The lessons learned during the D8Cad8 concerning impr*vements in rural areas will have to be applied as widely as possible. In addition, a large number of urban systems in developing countries are plagued by very high storage and transmission losses, constituting a serious burden to municipalities in terms 0.l b;erating cost- and water supply availability, 82. Increases in the demand for water in urban and rural aceas, together with increases in demand for industrial and agricultural purposes, are taking place at a time when a greater number of countries are facing severe limitations in terms of the sustainable carrying capacity of land and water resOurC8~3. u/ The allocation of increasingly scarce water resources to Competing potential uses, as well a3 the need to protect the 8nVirOIUnent from rising levels of pollution from urban, industrial and agricultural WaSttiSr will require, more than ever, the development of balanced appr<)aches to the overall management of water resources, and the establishment of effective linkages between various ministries and governn,antal organizations dealing with water reSourC83, a9 Well a8 linkages between them and those governmental organizations dealing with overall economic planning and development. Greater attention will need to be given to increasing efficiency in the use of water in all sector3, including the safe reuse of waste waters. /. . .A/45/327 English Page 25 83. The lack of trained personnel at all levels anc¶ the inadequacy of human resources development programmes continue to be among the most severe constraints faced by all countries, together with funding limitations and the inadequacy of operation and maintenance strategies and procedures. As for community participation, and in particular the participation of women in the planning and
**Analysis**
The text discusses the management of water resources, the importance of efficient use of water, and the need for sustainable approaches to water resource management. It also mentions the challenges faced by countries in terms of funding, personnel, and community participation. These themes suggest that the category should be related to natural resources and environmental issues.

**Category**
Natural resources and environment, Economic development