Waste to Worth: Managing India’s Urban Water Crisis through Wastewater Reuse

December 12, 2024

India’s urban water crisis is escalating. Our reliance on sources, often hundreds of miles away, is becoming increasingly unsustainable. Major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad and Chennai are staring at an impending water crisis. The solution to bridge the gap between water demand and supply lies not in finding more water but in reusing the treated water that we already have. This report is a call to action.

Based on a comprehensive analysis of 35 case studies across 16 cities in seven Indian states, the report assesses the current state of treated wastewater reuse in India. It examines existing policies, programs, and on-ground practices, providing valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners. It also highlights the critical importance of prioritizing treated wastewater reuse as a public good, particularly for irrigation and groundwater recharge, while ensuring equity and justice for underserved communities. It urges a critical revaluation of treated wastewater reuse from both a policy and practice standpoint. The urgency of water scarcity demands a fresh perspective on how we prioritize and utilize treated wastewater as a new and vital water resource. By promoting equity, fostering climate resilience, and advocating for sustainable water management practices, this report serves as a blueprint for building a robust framework for treated wastewater reuse across India.