Water quality has emerged as one of the vital aspects that define how a country is able to successfully manage its environment, infrastructure, and health. In various developed nations around the world, access to clean and pure drinking water is not left to chance. Rather, various aspects such as water sources and environmental protection policies help define water quality. In various nations that enjoy excellent water quality, advanced engineering solutions are used in conjunction with resource management to ensure that water remains pure and free of any contamination at every stage. Understanding how such systems work can help define how various nations are able to achieve near-perfect water quality and how they manage to sustain such results over time.According to the World Population Review, check below the list of the top 10 countries with the best water quality in 2026, which is measured as part of the annual Environmental Performance Index (EPI)

List of top 10 countries ranked by water quality

Global water quality rankings highlight countries like Switzerland and New Zealand, where strong policies, infrastructure, and natural resources ensure clean, safe drinking water for citizens.

*The highest score reveals the greater availability of safe drinking water.Source: World Population Review

Countries with best water quality

Germany

In Germany, water quality standards are determined through a federal regulatory framework based on the EU Water Framework Directive. The municipal water supply relies on groundwater sources, which are naturally filtered through geological strata prior to pumping. Water treatment plants utilise a multi-step purification process involving activated carbon filtration and oxidation.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the management of water quality involves the supervision of agencies like the Environment Agency. Sources of water include reservoirs, rivers, and aquifers, which undergo extensive treatment before consumption. Technologies used include membrane filtration and ultraviolet treatment.

Italy

The quality of water in Italy is improved by the combination of alpine water sources and the regulated water treatment systems in the municipalities. The mountain water sources have relatively low contamination, which helps in lowering the required intensity in the water treatment process.

Greece

In Greece, high water quality is assured by natural filtration, especially in areas of limestone geology, such as island and coastal aquifers. Desalination plants are used to augment freshwater resources in areas where there is a scarcity of nat

Switzerland

One of the nations with the most controlled water system in the world is Switzerland. The country has a strong reliance on natural sources such as alpine lakes and springs. A substantial part of drinking water is not required to be treated as it is naturally pure.

Finland

Thousands of lakes in Finland serve as an abundant source of freshwater resources. Both groundwater and surface water resources are being utilised in Finland, with appropriate treatment processes being implemented.

Ireland

Ireland sources much of its drinking water from rivers and lakes, supported by treatment plants designed to address organic matter and microbial risks. Infrastructure improvements in recent years have focused on upgrading older systems to meet stricter standards.

Norway

Norway benefits from glacial and mountainous landscapes that naturally protect water sources from contamination. Surface water, particularly from lakes, forms the primary supply.

Luxembourg

Despite its small size, Luxembourg maintains highly efficient water management systems. Groundwater is the primary source, supplemented by surface reservoirs.Regulatory frameworks enforce strict quality standards, while modern treatment facilities ensure compliance. Investment in infrastructure has minimised losses and maintained system reliability.

Canada

In Canada, vast freshwater reserves provide a strong foundation for high water quality. Lakes and rivers, including the Great Lakes system, serve as major sources. Water treatment standards are governed at both federal and provincial levels. Advanced filtration and disinfection systems are widely used in urban centres.

In a significant early setback for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), legendary cricketer MS Dhoni is expected to miss the opening two weeks of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. The development comes just days before the tournament kicks off, leaving fans and the franchise adjusting to life without their talismanic leader at the start of the campaign.

Reason why MS Dhoni will miss the first two weeks of IPL 2026

The franchise issued an official statement on the morning of their season opener, confirming that Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. The update indicated that the veteran wicketkeeper-batter will likely remain sidelined for at least the first fortnight of the competition.

In a message shared on social media, CSK extended their support to the iconic cricketer, wishing him a speedy recovery. While the injury is not believed to be long-term, the timing is far from ideal, especially with a packed schedule awaiting the five-time champions.

“Official Statement . MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026. Get well soon, Thala!” wrote CSK on X.

Official Statement

MS Dhoni is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a calf strain. As a result, he is likely to miss the first two weeks of TATA IPL 2026.

Get well soon, Thala! 💛🦁 pic.twitter.com/4dgmt5EWFi

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) March 28, 2026

Crucial matches ahead without MSD

CSK’s campaign begins with a clash against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 in Guwahati. However, Dhoni’s absence is expected to stretch beyond just the opener. The team is set to face Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals within the first two weeks—fixtures that could play a key role in shaping their early momentum.

Without Dhoni’s on-field leadership and finishing prowess, CSK may need to rethink their combinations and strategy. His calm presence behind the stumps and tactical acumen have often been decisive in tight encounters, making his temporary absence a considerable challenge.

Despite the setback, CSK do have multiple wicketkeeping options in their ranks. The squad includes Sanju Samson, who recently joined from Rajasthan Royals, along with Kartik Sharma and Urvil Patel. Samson, with his experience and leadership credentials, could be a frontrunner to take up additional responsibilities during Dhoni’s absence. Team management will now be tasked with identifying the right balance, not just in terms of personnel but also leadership on the field. Filling Dhoni’s shoes, even temporarily, is no easy task given his influence on the team over the years.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Squads: Complete list of Indian and overseas players in all 10 teams

Dhoni’s legacy and fitness concerns

At nearly 45, Dhoni remains one of the most enduring figures in the IPL. With 278 matches to his name, he holds the record as the most capped player in the tournament’s history. Over recent seasons, he has managed persistent knee issues but continued to feature regularly, showcasing remarkable resilience.

His leadership was instrumental in guiding CSK to their fifth IPL title in 2023, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest captains in franchise cricket. However, recurring fitness concerns have increasingly become part of his narrative in the later stages of his career.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Schedule, Broadcast and Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & other countries

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday inaugurated Phase I of the Noida International Airport at Jewar in Uttar Pradesh, marking a significant milestone in India’s expanding aviation infrastructure.PM Modi was accompanied by Uttar Pradesh chief minister Yogi Adityanath and Governor Anandiben Patel. Developed at an investment of around Rs 11,200 crore under a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model, the project is expected to enhance both regional and international connectivity for the National Capital Region (NCR).The airport is being positioned as a key addition to India’s aviation network, aimed at easing pressure on existing infrastructure while supporting the country’s ambition of becoming a global aviation hub.

Second international gateway for Delhi NCR

Noida International Airport has been developed as the second international gateway for Delhi NCR, complementing the existing Indira Gandhi International Airport, which currently handles the majority of the region’s air traffic.

With rising passenger demand and capacity constraints at IGI Airport, the new facility is expected to play a crucial role in distributing traffic more efficiently.Together, the two airports will function as an integrated aviation system, helping reduce congestion, improve connectivity, and enhance the region’s standing among leading global aviation hubs.

Phase I capacity and future expansion plans

Phase I of the airport is designed to handle 12 million passengers per annum (MPPA), providing immediate relief to the region’s growing air travel demand.The project has been planned with scalability in mind, with provisions to expand capacity to 70 million passengers annually in subsequent phases. This long-term vision reflects the government’s strategy to future-proof infrastructure and accommodate sustained growth in air travel.

Modern infrastructure and all-weather operations

The airport features a 3,900-metre runway capable of handling wide-body aircraft, making it suitable for both domestic and international long-haul operations.

Equipped with advanced navigation systems such as the Instrument Landing System (ILS) and modern airfield lighting, the facility is designed to support efficient, all-weather, round-the-clock operations. These features ensure operational reliability even under challenging weather conditions.

Cargo hub and logistics ecosystem

In addition to passenger services, the airport includes a comprehensive cargo ecosystem aimed at strengthening logistics and trade.The Multi-Modal Cargo Hub comprises an Integrated Cargo Terminal and dedicated logistics zones, with an initial handling capacity of over 2.5 lakh metric tonnes annually. This capacity is expected to expand significantly to around 18 lakh metric tonnes in the future, positioning the airport as a major cargo and logistics centre in North India.

Dedicated MRO facility to enhance efficiency

A key component of the airport’s infrastructure is a 40-acre Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility.This dedicated facility is expected to improve operational efficiency by enabling airlines to service and maintain aircraft locally, reducing turnaround times and operational costs. It also strengthens India’s capabilities in aviation maintenance services.

Sustainability and future-ready design

Noida International Airport has been designed as a sustainable and future-ready infrastructure project, with a focus on achieving net-zero emissions.The project incorporates energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible practices, aligning with India’s broader climate goals. The airport’s development reflects a growing emphasis on green infrastructure in large-scale projects.

Architecture inspired by Indian heritage

Blending modern infrastructure with cultural aesthetics, the airport’s architectural design draws inspiration from traditional Indian elements such as ghats and havelis.This approach aims to create a distinctive identity for the airport while offering passengers a sense of place rooted in Indian heritage.

Strategic location and multi-modal connectivity

Strategically located along the Yamuna Expressway in Gautam Buddha Nagar district, the airport is planned as a multi-modal transport hub.It will feature seamless integration with road, rail, metro and regional transit systems, ensuring smooth connectivity for passengers and cargo.This connectivity is expected to significantly improve accessibility for travellers across Delhi NCR and neighbouring regions.

Boost to India’s aviation ambitions

The inauguration of Phase I of Noida International Airport is being seen as a major step in strengthening India’s aviation ecosystem.By expanding capacity, improving connectivity, and integrating modern infrastructure with sustainability, the project is expected to play a key role in positioning Delhi NCR as a major global aviation hub while supporting economic growth and regional development