This paper delves into the harsh realities of climate change, revealing how it exacerbates water scarcity and disproportionately burdens women, particularly in rural and economically marginalized regions. The study spotlights the troubling ‘water wives’ phenomenon in Maharashtra, India, where women are forced into marriages solely to fetch water. By employing a rigorous blend of qualitative and quantitative research methods—including field studies, interviews, and analysis of secondary data—this paper exposes how climate-induced water shortages deepen gender inequalities and spawn social practices that further marginalize women. The findings are a stark reminder of the urgent need for bold policy interventions. The paper concludes with a call for comprehensive measures that prioritize sustainable water management and gender-sensitive approaches to rectify these injustices and empower women in affected communities.