Water Crisis in Indian Cities : A Systemic Failure or Wrath of Changing Climate* Gupta Anil K1, Madan Aditi2, Acharya Pritha3 1Professor and Head ECDRM Division, National Institute of Disater Management (NIDM), Delhi 2Associate Fellow, Institute of Human Development (IHD), New Delhi 3Research Associate, CAP-RES, Division, National Institute of Disater Management (NIDM), Delhi *Source : National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), New Delhi 2022 Online Published on 27 September, 2023. Abstract Many large cities in India are facing acute water scarcity today, affecting millions of people. The data shows that only a few of the Indian cities have efficient water management systems set up in place amidst the ever-so-rising population of the country. The case studies discuss the looming water crisis in the National Capital Region of Delhi and the Metropolitan area of Chennai. India is linked to a deficiency in monsoon rainfall due to climate change, rapid & unplanned urbanization, reckless evolution and privation of operative planning for the management of water. Both the cities faced acute water crises in recent years, disproportionately affecting the marginalized. Based on the available literature, the case studies discuss the systemic risk and key drivers resulting in the water crisis and its social, physical, and economic implications in the two cities as well as suggests recommendations to tackle the issue. The study reports a large-scale impact on socio-economic, environmental, and political systems has been triggered due to failing agriculture, political conflicts in the urban and rural areas, economic challenges due to the closure of businesses, and an increasing number of suicides among farmers. The case study suggests prevention, mitigation, and preparedness measures for proactive urban management. The case study discusses various measures undertaken at a local scale for water crisis management and key challenges faced in risk management. The case study concludes by highlighting the significance of proactive measures for long-term sustainability and resilience-building along with the promotion of social behaviour change communication campaigns and capacity-building programs among stakeholders and citizens for the effective management of the risk. Top Keywords Water Scarcity, Systematic Risk, Chennai Water Crisis, Delhi Water Crisis. Top |