Indian cities lose almost 45 percent of their water supply, thanks to huge distribution and transmission losses, says a new study.

“Rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, protection of existing local water bodies, relocation of non essential water intensive activities (e.g. soft drinks or water bottling plants),” are the need of the day in cities, according to the study released by the South Asia Networks on Dams, Rivers and People (SANDRP).

The study also mentions that with rainfall events fast becoming irregular, farmers dependent on rain would lose massively. “By way of adaptation strategies in this situation, we need to make local rainwater harvesting and ground water recharge the top priorities in our water resources policy, programmes and practices,” said the study titled ‘Water Sector Options for India in a Changing Climate’.

According to the study, the poorest sections are the most vulnerable in the context of climate change as their water, food, livelihood and energy security are alll linked to the environment. The 106-page study has several case studies and recommendations to boost water resources in the country.

Read the report