Publication
Urban India: Supplementary Edition (Re-thinking Urban Rivers)
2023
Volume 43 of Urban India, the National Institute of Urban Affairs’ (NIUA) bi-annual journal, contains nine pioneering research articles written by the student finalists of the Student Thesis Competition (STC), Season 2, along with various sector experts. STC is conducted annually by NIUA in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) to provide a platform for students to pitch their innovative research proposals, and gain financial and academic support. In 2022, students across India developed their projects across various thematics such as blue green infrastructure planning, the revival of urban waterbodies and groundwater, pollution abatement in rivers, wastewater pollut…
Publication
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) For River-Sensitive Gatherings Along Riverbanks
2024
Riverbanks across India serve as dynamic public spaces, hosting a diverse range of gatherings — from spiritual festivals and cultural celebrations to concerts, civic ceremonies, environmental campaigns, and tourist activities. While these events foster community engagement and cultural expression, the concentration of significant numbers of people along the river's edge places considerable pressure on both natural and administrative resources, often exceeding their carrying capacity and posing risks to the ecological integrity of riverine environments.
Report
Outcome Report: Management of Urban Water Bodies
2022
Urban water bodies are critical components of city ecosystems, yet their effective assessment and management remain a persistent challenge across South and Southeast Asia. To address this, a two-day technical workshop on the Management of Urban Water Bodies was organised on 17–18 November 2022 in New Delhi, with the primary objective of building understanding and enabling practical application of the Urban Water Body Diagnostic Tool.The workshop brought together participants from River Cities Alliance member cities and member nations of the UNESCO New Delhi office — spanning Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka — providing a valuable platform for cross-national dialogue and collaborative learning. The workshop pursued three core objectives: fostering in-depth deliberation on the effective assessment and holistic management of urban water bodies; building participants' capacity in the knowledge and application of the Urban Water Body Diagnostic Tool; and exploring the potential for integrating nature-based solutions into urban water body management strategies.Over the course of two days, participants were equipped with a scientific and technical methodology for evaluating the status of water bodies within their respective cities — an essential foundation for evidence-based planning and informed decision-making. This Outcome Report documents the proceedings, …
Publication
White Paper: A Qualitative Framework to Evaluate the Extent of Integrated Urban Water Management in Indian Cities & Applying the Framework to Delhi
2021
Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM) has emerged as a widely recognised philosophy for managing the urban water sector, advocating a holistic treatment of water supply, wastewater, and stormwater systems to strengthen urban water security. While India has acknowledged IUWM as a sound and robust approach since 2015, its adoption has remained limited — constrained by gaps in awareness, the complexity of translating philosophy into practice, and the need for a nuanced understanding of a city's water dynamics across hydrological, economic, institutional, governance, and social dimensions.
Report
Use of ICT for Water Supply and Sewerage Services in Smart Cities, SAAR–Sameeksha Series – Impact Assessment
2025
This research report presents a comprehensive assessment of the role of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in enhancing water supply and sewerage services across India's 100 Smart Cities under the Smart Cities Mission (SCM). By integrating ICT and Internet of Things (IoT) devices into urban water and sewerage infrastructure, the SCM sought to optimise the performance and operational efficiency of cities spanning the full spectrum of urban scale — from small towns to megapolises. Of the 100 Smart Cities, 94 responded to the national-level assessment questionnaire developed for this study, providing a robust empirical foundation for analysis. The report documents the range and …
Report
Managing Shallow Aquifers in Urban Areas: Pune Workshop Report 2024
2024
In 2022, the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 initiated a pilot project on Shallow Aquifer Management (SAM) across ten select cities — Jaipur, Dhanbad, Gwalior, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Rajkot, Pune, Thane, and Bengaluru. The pilot aims to sensitise city officials to the potential of recharge wells and structures as practical interventions for shallow aquifer recharge, while simultaneously addressing the compounding urban challenges of groundwater depletion, urban flooding, and contamination of shallow groundwater reserves. Central to the initiative is the revitalisation of traditional water management structures, including dug wells and urban water bodies, and the mainstreaming of shallow aquifer management into city-level water strategies — in alignment with AMRUT's broader vision of sustained urban water security.This Report documents the proceedings and outcomes of a national training workshop convened as part of the pilot, bringing together a diverse cross-section of urban water management stakeholders for cross-learning and knowledge exchange. Organised as a collaborative effort by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), ACWADAM (Pune), and BIOME Environment Solutions (Bangalore), the workshop drew participation from more than 49 representatives across 19 AMRUT cities from 13 states. Attendees included senior decision-makers s…
Manual
Water-Smart School Manual
2025
This manual is designed to help primary school students at G-Block, JJ Colony Bakkarwala learn about water security, groundwater recharge, and the benefits of the Rainwater Harvesting and Micro-irrigation systems installed on their campus under the AIWASI project. The goal is to raise awareness and encourage responsible water use among students.
Manual
Community-led Tree Census: A Guidebook for Local Action
2025
This guidebook emerges from a shared need for environmental assessment, voiced at both the city and community levels through structured discussions within the Delhi Water Forum and Community Water Forums (CWFs) in two AIWASI demonstration sites: Bakkarwala Resettlement Colony and Mubarakpur Dabas Urban Village. In both communities, residents identified a significant lack of green cover and trees in their neighbourhoods, reinforcing the urgency for localised action. In Bakkarwala, while neighbourhood and pocket parks exist, the internal streets and open spaces remain largely devoid of tree cover, exacerbating residents’ exposure to urban heat island effects and severe air pollution. This obse…
Publication
Delhi Water Inventory
2025
The Delhi Water Inventory has been developed to serve as a centralized compendium of water-related information for the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Its main objective is to compile fragmented datasets scattered across different institutions and present them in a structured, accessible manner. By bringing this information together, the inventory aims to support evidencebased planning, policy-making, and research on water resources in Delhi. The purpose of this document is to serve as a one-stop reference for data on Delhi’s water resources. It covers information on surface water, groundwater, and water quality, along with data on sewerage infrastructure, governance frameworks, and catchment characteristics. The compendium is designed for a diverse group of users, including city officials, planners, regulators, researchers, students, decision-makers, and civil society organizations. For government agencies, it provides a ready reference to track progress and ensure compliance with environmental mandates. For researchers and students, it offers a consolidated data source for academic studies and innovation. For the public, it fosters awareness and engagement with Delhi’s water challenges.
Report
Towards a Water Sensitive Delhi: Strategic Recommendations for the Delhi Development Authority (DDA)
2025
This Position Paper is an outcome of the Australia-India Water Security Initiative (AIWASI), led by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), Australia, and implemented through a consortium comprising the World Resources Institute (WRI), the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), the Mahila Housing Trust (MHT), and McGregor Coxall (Australia). The Initiative seeks to advance the adoption of water-sensitive planning and design principles within the Indian urban context. Informed by the Delhi Water Sensitivity Baseline Assessment — which evaluated Delhi's performance against the seven goals of the Water Sensitive Cities Index, as conceived by the Cooperative Research Centre for …
Report
Delhi's Water Sensitivity Baseline
2025
Delhi is confronted with escalating and interconnected water challenges that demand urgent, structured attention. The city faces a daily water supply deficit of 260 MGD against a total demand of 1,250 MGD, with groundwater extraction persisting at unsustainable levels of 126 MGD. Its drainage infrastructure — comprising over 4,000 drains — has become severely fragmented, with only 700 distinctly identifiable, and 19 major natural drains documented in the 1976 Drainage Master Plan no longer in existence. Urban water bodies have recorded a 7% reduction in area between 1999 and 2012, and the Yamuna River, though entering Delhi in a relatively unimpaired condition, exits as one of the most pollu…
Publication
AIWASI Compendium on Water Sensitive Urban Design
2024
Indian cities are at a critical crossroads. With over 90% grappling with waterlogging and floods, 70% of water resources contaminated, and nearly three-quarters of urban water bodies lost in just four decades, the need for a new approach to urban water management has never been more urgent. Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) offers a transformative pathway — one that moves cities beyond basic service provision toward adaptive, climate-resilient environments that serve both communities and ecosystems.This Compendium brings together 50 water-sensitive initiatives — 14 from Indian cities and 36 from across the world — organised across five thematic areas: Lakes and Waterbodies Rejuvenation, River Related Initiatives, Parks and Public Spaces, Community-centric Interventions, and Planning Interventions. Each case study is examined through the lens of the Water Sensitive Cities (WSC) goals developed by the Cooperative Research Centre for Water Sensitive Cities (CRCWSC), Australia, illustrating how WSUD principles translate into real, scalable action.Developed as a technical reference for Indian urban practitioners, this document is designed to help urban planners, policymakers, and stakeholders understand, mainstream, and implement WSUD approaches across diverse urban contexts. It maps co-benefits, SDG alignment, and WSC goal linkages, while highlighting existing Indian policy frame…
Report
Database of Nature-based Solutions in Bhubaneswar
2025
This document presents a Database of Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in Bhubaneswar, developed under the EPIC project, which identifies and analyses key urban flooding hotspots in the city based on field assessments, risk mapping, and community inputs following recurrent monsoon flooding. From an initial set of flood-prone locations, selected sites were studied in detail to understand flooding patterns, land use, drainage conditions, and surrounding ecosystems, leading to the proposal of site-specific nature-based and ecosystem-based adaptation interventions such as sponge parks, constructed wetlands, drain restoration, riparian buffers, and blue-green public spaces. The database serves as a pr…
Publication
Ecosystem Evaluations of Three Ecosystems in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
2025
This study, conducted under the “Proliferating Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Practices in Indian Cities” (EPIC) project supported by the Global EbA Fund, assesses the ecological, socio-cultural, and economic value of three key urban ecosystems in Bhubaneswar: Bindusagar Lake, Jaidev Vatika, and a wetland. As part of the EPIC project’s efforts to demonstrate the economic valuation of urban ecosystems, the study engaged 769 stakeholders—including residents, visitors, and informal workers—to capture diverse perspectives on ecosystem use, benefits, and conservation needs. Using a comprehensive mixed-methods approach, the research integrates quantitative and qualitative data to provide a holis…
Publication
Strategy for Flood Management in Bhubaneswar City using Nature-based Solutions
2025
This strategy document presents nature-based solutions for managing urban flooding in Bhubaneswar, developed under the “Proliferating Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Practices in Indian Cities” (EPIC) project, supported by the Global EbA Fund.Bhubaneswar, selected as the pilot city, underwent a detailed baseline assessment to identify flood hotspots and vulnerable areas. Simultaneously, the city’s natural ecosystems were mapped to assess their potential in mitigating flood risks. Based on this analysis, targeted nature-based interventions were designed for twelve critical locations. The document provides a comprehensive account of the methodology and process used to integrate ecosystem-based solutions into the city’s flood management strategy, offering a practical roadmap for urban resilience planning.
Publication
Strategic Framework for Estimating the Economic Value of an Urban Ecosystem
2025
Water is the primary medium through which the impacts of climate change are felt, with cities worldwide facing increased flooding, water scarcity, and related challenges. In India, urban areas experience frequent floods alongside growing summer water shortages, making water security central to climate adaptation strategies. The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), with support from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), implemented the “Proliferating Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Practices in Indian Cities” (EPIC) project under the Global EbA Fund. Using Bhubaneswar, Odisha, as a pilot city, the project demonstrates how ecosystem-based adaptation can help ci…
Publication
Compendium on Ecosystem-based Adaptation Practices
2025
Climate change poses growing risks through extreme weather, water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and climate-related disasters, particularly in developing countries like India. Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) offers a nature-driven, cost-effective approach to building climate resilience by conserving, restoring, and sustainably managing ecosystems while delivering co-benefits such as improved livelihoods, water security, and biodiversity conservation. This Compendium on Ecosystem-based Adaptation Practices presents a curated selection of global and regional case studies across diverse landscapes, showcasing practical EbA interventions and their impacts. Developed under the “Proliferating E…
Publication
Climate Change Adaptation: Leveraging Urban Ecosystems in Bhubaneswar
2025
This document presents a comprehensive compilation of thematic maps aimed at supporting the strategic use of urban ecosystems for climate change adaptation in the city of Bhubaneswar, Odisha. It analyzes patterns of urban development and growth in relation to key climate change impacts, with a particular focus on urban heat stress and urban flooding. Through spatial analysis, the document highlights how different forms of urbanization interact with natural systems and influence climate vulnerability. Each urban ecosystem is described in detail, outlining its characteristics and the range of ecosystem services it provides, such as temperature regulation, flood mitigation, and environmental resilience, thereby emphasizing their role in sustainable urban planning and climate-responsive development. This publication has been prepared under the project “Proliferating Ecosystem-based Adaptation Practices in Indian cities (EPIC)” supported by the Global EbA Fund.
Publication
A Strategic Framework for Managing Urban River Stretches in the Ganga River Basin: URMP
2020
The Urban River Management Plan (URMP) Framework, prepared by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), serves as a strategic guide for Indian cities to rejuvenate, manage, and integrate rivers into urban planning. It identifies rivers as essential ecological and cultural assets that are under increasing pressure from urbanization and pollution. The framework outlines a comprehensive seven-stage planning process, including city-river profiling, vision development, goal setting, preparation of detailed action plans, alignment with urban development plans, institutional integration, and monitoring mechanisms. It encourages…
Publication
Strategic Guidelines for Making River Sensitive Master Plans
2021
The Strategic Guidelines for Making River-Sensitive Master Plans, developed by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) with the support of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), provides a structured approach to integrate river-sensitive planning into urban master plans across India. The guidelines aim to ensure that rivers, as critical ecological, cultural, and economic assets, are safeguarded amid urban development. The document outlines a seven-step process starting with a baseline assessment of the river's condition, including its ecological status and water quality. This is followed by visioning and goal setting for river management. The guidelines emphasize policy and regu…
Publication
Urban River Management Plan - Kanpur
2021
The Urban River Management Plan (URMP) for Kanpur, developed by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) with the support of the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), is a comprehensive strategy aimed at integrating river health into urban planning and governance. It focuses on the restoration, protection, and sustainable management of the Ganga and Pandu rivers, which are critical to Kanpur’s ecological balance, cultural identity, and public health.Kanpur, historically a major industrial and cultural hub along the Ganga, has long suffered from the degradation of its rivers due to untreated sewage, industrial effluents, solid waste dumping, and unplanned urban expansion. The URMP addresses these issues through a multi-dimensional approach that combines infrastructure development, policy reform, ecological restoration, and community engagement.The plan’s objectives include reducing direct pollution into rivers, improving sewage and solid waste management, rejuvenating natural habitats, and enhancing public access to the rivers through planned riverfront development. Key interventions include the installation of decentralized wastewater treatment systems, promotion of solid waste segregation at source, restoration of natural buffers along the riverbanks, and development of public amenities like ghats, parks, and walkways. These measures aim to reconnect people with the r…
Publication
Urban River Management Plan – Ayodhya
2023
The Urban River Management Plan (URMP) for Ayodhya, prepared by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), is a strategic framework designed to sustainably manage and rejuvenate the Saryu River, which holds deep ecological, spiritual, and cultural significance. This plan focuses on integrating river health into the city’s urban planning mechanisms to ensure that the development of Ayodhya complements the conservation of its vital water body. The URMP outlines key objectives such as pollution abatement, improved sewage and solid waste management, riverfront development, habitat restoration, and enhanced public access. It p…
Publication
Urban River Management Plan - Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad)
2023
The National Institute of Urban Affairs has assisted the city of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar in creating its Urban River Management Plan (URMP). This is one of the first Urban River Management Plans created for a city outside of the Ganga basin, and considers the specific challenges associated with the Kham and Sukhna seasonal, rain-fed rivers. The URMP Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar proposes a set of 21 tangible and practical actions for managing the city’s water features, under the ten-point URMP agenda. While some of these interventions are planning-oriented and conceptual, others are projects that can be directly implemented on ground. The Urban River Management Plan (URMP) for Chhatrapati Sam…
Publication
A Guide towards River-Sensitive Urban Planning
2020
The "River Sensitive Urban Planning: Knowledge Product" (Version 2), developed by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), provides a comprehensive framework for incorporating river-sensitive approaches into urban planning and development. This knowledge product is a vital resource designed to guide urban planners, policymakers, and stakeholders in cities across India, where river corridors are integral to both the ecological and cultural landscape.The document highlights the critical need to integrate river health into urban planning, particularly as cities face rapid growth and urbanization. It emphasizes that rivers are not merely sources of water but essential ecological systems that support biodiversity, regulate climate, and provide important cultural and recreational spaces. By focusing on sustainable urban development, the knowledge product calls for a paradigm shift in how cities engage with their rivers, ensuring that urban growth aligns with environmental sustainability and resilience.The knowledge product offers several strategies to achieve this goal. These include pollution management, decentralized wastewater treatment systems, sustainable stormwater management, and restoration of natural riverbanks. It outlines the importance of a river-sensitive approach to flood management, the preservati…
Publication
Innovations in Urban River Management
2022
The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) and the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) have collaboratively developed a knowledge product titled ‘Innovations in Urban River Management’. The primary objective of this product is to showcase pioneering and scalable innovations to city governors, administrators, and urban practitioners, assisting them in identifying practical and locally adaptable solutions to river-related urban challenges. This product highlights a wide range of innovative case examples from domains such as Information Technology, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Geographic Information Systems, and other emerging technologies. The featured case studies demonstrate so…
Publication
A Compendium of River Management Plans – From Managing River Basins to River Specific Projects
2022
The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), has developed a knowledge product titled “A Compendium of River Management Plans”. This compendium brings together a wide array of global best practices in river management, focusing on innovative and holistic approaches that have proven effective in different urban contexts. By documenting successful strategies from various parts of the world, the product aims to inspire Indian cities to adopt more integrated, sustainable, and inclusive methods of managing their rivers. Recognizing the numerous ecological, social, and infrastructural challenges faced by river cities in India—su…
Publication
Eco-friendly Interventions for Riverfront Development
2022
The Oxford dictionary defines an urban waterfront as “the part of a town or city adjoining a water body such as a river, lake, harbour, sea, etc.” Riverfronts can take various forms, including riverfronts, lakefronts, canal-fronts, or sea-fronts, often seen in many cities. Historically, riverfronts are where human culture and economies began, with many early settlements developing along rivers. These areas offer a wide range of services, including recreational spaces, intra- and inter-city navigation, livelihood opportunities (such as fishing and agriculture), religious and cultural connections, tourism promotion, and providing open spaces within the city for environmental benefits.Over time, many urban riverfronts have been neglected, suffering from unsustainable urbanization, pollution, and the impacts of climate change. Most riverfronts have been altered due to poor planning, leading to infrastructure decay and degraded river health. However, these areas hold significant potential for improving urban spaces and quality of life. In response, a need for more robust planning and development has arisen. To develop and regenerate riverfronts effectively, strategies must address several key areas, including ecological restoration, flood prevention, historical and cultural restoration, economic development, recreation and leisure, citizen connect with nature, and livelihood generat…
Publication
Celebrating the Intangible Value of Water
2022
Water holds immense intangible value across almost every country, deeply reflected in the diverse cultures, traditions, festivals, and rituals. This profound significance goes far beyond fulfilling basic human needs and highlights the central role water plays in society. As the saying goes, “What we cherish, we value, and what we value, we protect.” This adage speaks to the fact that leveraging the intangible value of water can serve as a powerful strategy to ensure its responsible use and long-term sustainability. The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), has developed a comprehensive knowledge product titled “Celebrat…
Publication
Managing Shallow Aquifers in Cities: A 6-Step Approach
2023
The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) is supporting ten cities under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 to advance sustainable shallow aquifer management (SAM) in urban areas. This pioneering initiative addresses the unique and complex challenges of managing shallow aquifers at the city level by adopting a participatory mapping approach that involves local stakeholders, technical experts, and municipal institutions. It is the first time that shallow aquifer management has been implemented at a city-wide scale across India, marking a major step forward in decentralized urban water governance. The participatory process ensures that scientific knowle…
Report
Decentralized and Non-Sewered Wastewater Management for Selected Ganga Towns
2019
The conventional approach to managing wastewater in Indian towns has primarily focused on centralized sewer networks and sewage treatment plants (STPs). While effective in theory, these systems are capital and operation intensive, demand large quantities of water to maintain flow, and are difficult to implement in older or irregularly developed urban areas. Due to topographical constraints and the unregulated spatial growth of towns, it is often unfeasible to achieve 100% coverage through centralized systems alone. As a result, such approaches have struggled to eliminate the problem of untreated wastewater entering rivers, especially the Ganga.Recognizing these limitations, there is growing acceptance of decentralized, non-sewered solutions that collect and treat waste as close to the source of generation as possible. This is especially important in the Ganga basin, where the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has made significant progress in reducing open defecation by promoting toilets with on-site containment. However, if faecal sludge from these toilets is not managed properly, it may further pollute the river instead of improving its condition.Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) offers a decentralized alternative that can effectively complement centralized systems. Despite being technically sound and cost-effective, decentralized wastewater solutions have historically rec…
Report
Decentralized Wastewater Management – Complementing Centralized Solutions for Achieving 100% Sanitation Coverage
2019
The NIUA handbook is a key initiative designed to strengthen the capacities of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), para-state technical agencies, administrators, and urban sector professionals in managing decentralized wastewater systems, particularly focusing on Faecal Sludge and Septage Management (FSSM) in Ganga towns. Recognizing the growing importance of sustainable and localized sanitation solutions, this handbook has been developed as a critical knowledge resource. It draws upon extensive experience gained from delivering advanced training modules on Integrated Wastewater and Septage Management (IWSM) and FSSM, and consolidates key learning elements, best practices, and actionable insights der…
Report
Policy Brief on the Future of River Management
2020
On 1 May 2020, the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), organized an Ideathon titled “The Future of River Management.” This virtual event was convened in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, using the global crisis as an opportunity to reflect on and rethink traditional approaches to river management. The Ideathon brought together urban planners, environmentalists, policymakers, and water sector experts to brainstorm innovative ideas and strategies for more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable river management. The discussions highlighted the importance of integrating river systems into urban planning, promoting natu…
Report
Ideathon on "The Future of River Management"
2020
On 1 May 2020, the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), organized an Ideathon titled “The Future of River Management.” Conducted during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ideathon provided a crucial opportunity to reflect on how the global health crisis had drawn attention to the intricate links between human activities, public health systems, and the health of natural ecosystems—particularly riverine environments. The event was envisioned as a platform to examine these interconnections and derive meaningful lessons to guide the future of river management in India.The primary goal of the Ideathon was to use the unique conditions created by the pandemic as a lens through which to explore more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient river management strategies. Participants were encouraged to rethink traditional models of river governance and identify innovative, community-based, and ecologically sound approaches that could be adopted in both the short and long term. By recognizing rivers as dynamic, living systems that are deeply intertwined with the socio-economic fabric of urban life, the Ideathon highlighted the urgent need for integrated planning and river-sensitive urban development.The event brought together a wide range of participants, including urban planners, policy experts, environment…
Publication
Urban Water Body Diagnostic Tool
2022
The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), in collaboration with UNESCO New Delhi, has developed the Urban Water Body Diagnostic Tool, a comprehensive decision support system aimed at assisting city administrators in managing urban water bodies effectively. This innovative tool is designed to assess the condition of water bodies and guide the prioritization of rehabilitation and rejuvenation efforts within urban areas. The tool employs a combination of outcome-based and process-based indicators to evaluate various dimensions of a water body, such as water quality, ecological health, community engagement, and governance structures. These indicators are assigned specific weights using the…
Publication
Toolkit for Preparing City Action Plans for Reuse of Treated Used Water
2024
To support cities in implementing efficient infrastructure for the reuse of treated used water, the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), in collaboration with the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), has developed a comprehensive Toolkit. This Toolkit serves as a step-by-step guide for urban local bodies to assess their current status regarding the generation, treatment, and reuse potential of treated wastewater. It helps cities identify opportunities, gaps, and feasible avenues for integrating treated used water (TUW) into various urban applications such as landscaping, industrial processes, construction, and agriculture. The Toolkit is designed to support data-driven decision-m…
Brochure
Thesis Competition on Re-Imagining Urban Rivers, Season 2
2021
This concept note presents a comprehensive overview of the National Thesis Competition organized jointly by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) and the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG). Conceptualized as an annual initiative, the competition serves as a strategic platform to engage, inspire, and sensitize emerging professionals—particularly students, researchers, and young practitioners—towards the importance of sustainable urban river management and its integration into broader urban development agendas.Urban rivers across India are under increasing stress due to rapid urbanization, encroachment, pollution, and the impacts of climate change. Addressing these challenges requires innovative, research-backed, and interdisciplinary approaches. The competition encourages participants to develop thesis projects that propose creative, practical, and context-sensitive solutions for river rejuvenation, water-sensitive urban planning, and environmental sustainability. The aim is to foster a generation of professionals who understand the value of rivers as dynamic ecological and cultural assets within urban settings.Thematic areas for the competition include but are not limited to:Integrated urban riverfront development Nature-based solutions for flood management Sustainable wastewater management Groundwater recharge and urban hydrology Community-based river conservatio…
Brochure
URVERS Project Brochure
2019
This brochure presents a comprehensive overview of the URVERS (Urban River Systems) project, emphasizing the pivotal role that rivers play in shaping sustainable and resilient urban environments. Developed through a collaborative, research-driven approach, the URVERS project focuses on integrating river ecosystems into urban planning frameworks, ensuring that rivers are seen not as obstacles but as vital assets to city development. This also highlights a range of key activities undertaken under the project, including pilot studies, stakeholder consultations, policy reviews, and capacity-building workshops. These activities underscore the need for river-sensitive urban planning that aligns e…
Manual
Training Manual – Water Resources Management
2021
The "Water Resources Management" document, created by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), presents key strategies for addressing urban water challenges. It explores the need for an integrated approach to managing water resources, particularly in the face of rapid urban growth and climate change. The report emphasizes water conservation, wastewater treatment, and stormwater management. It proposes innovative solutions like decentralized wastewater systems and rainwater harvesting to improve urban water resilience. Policy frameworks and regulatory measures are highlighted as essential tools for guiding water management practices. The document stresses the importance of community pa…
Manual
Training Manual – Energy Efficient Water Supply System
2021
The "Energy Efficient Water Supply System" document, published by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), focuses on the importance of optimizing energy consumption in urban water supply systems. As cities around the world, particularly in India, face rapid urbanization, the demand for water and the associated energy required to supply it has significantly increased. This growing demand often results in inefficiencies within water supply systems, leading to unnecessary energy consumption and higher operational costs. The document outlines a range of strategies and technological innovations that can help reduce energy use while maintaining an adequate supply of water for urban populations.One of the primary areas of focus in the report is the use of energy-efficient technologies in water supply systems. The document suggests the adoption of advanced pumps, motors, and energy recovery systems that can significantly improve energy efficiency during water extraction, treatment, and distribution. By incorporating energy-efficient equipment and practices, water utilities can reduce their energy consumption, which, in turn, reduces operational costs and the environmental impact of water supply systems. The report also highlights the role of smart technologies, such as real-time monitoring and control systems, that allow utilities to track energy usage and identify inefficienci…
Manual
Training Manual – Energy Efficient Wastewater Management System
2022
The training manual, developed by the Climate Centre for Cities at NIUA, provides a comprehensive guide to water management under the ClimateSmart Cities Assessment Framework. It aims to equip urban planners, municipal authorities, policymakers, and other stakeholders with essential knowledge and tools for effective water governance in cities. This resource covers a broad spectrum of topics, including water conservation, climate-resilient urban water systems, integrated water resource management, and sustainable drainage solutions. It highlights best practices, relevant case studies, and actionable strategies to improve urban water systems and resilience to climate change. By focusing on cli…
Manual
Training Manual – Wastewater Recycle and Reuse
2022
This training manual, prepared by the Climate Centre for Cities at the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), is a comprehensive guide to sustainable water management, with a particular focus on wastewater recycling and reuse. Developed under the ClimateSmart Cities Assessment Framework, the manual is designed to support urban planners, municipal authorities, policymakers, and other stakeholders in adopting effective and climate-resilient wastewater strategies. It presents a wide range of topics, including decentralized wastewater treatment systems, emerging reuse technologies, regulatory and institutional frameworks, and case studies of successful practices across Indian cities. Emphas…
Manual
Training Manual – Flood and Water Stagnation Risk Management
2022
The Flood and Water Stagnation Risk Management training manual, prepared by the Climate Centre for Cities (C-Cube) at the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA), offers a detailed guide to help Indian cities address the growing risks of urban flooding and water stagnation. Developed under the ClimateSmart Cities Assessment Framework (CSCAF), this manual is aimed at urban local bodies, municipal officials, city planners, and policy professionals seeking to build flood-resilient infrastructure and systems.It begins by explaining the types and causes of urban flooding—fluvial, pluvial, and coastal—while highlighting how rapid urbanization, poor drainage, and climate variability contribute to the problem. The manual outlines methods for conducting flood risk assessments, mapping vulnerable areas, and establishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for emergency response.A key strength of the manual lies in its emphasis on sustainable and nature-based solutions. It advocates for the adoption of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), rejuvenation of water bodies, green-blue infrastructure, and integrated stormwater management to prevent waterlogging. Early Warning Systems (EWS) and data-driven planning approaches are recommended to improve preparedness and reduce response times during flood events.The manual also presents climate-adaptive infrastructure strategies and encourages …
Report
Workshop Report: Institutionalized an Impact Assessment Framework for Drink from Tap (DFT) Mission in Odisha
2024
The National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) has developed a Rapid Impact Assessment Tool to support quick and reliable evaluation of Drink From Tap (DFT) scheme projects. This tool is being implemented to assess ongoing DFT initiatives in 24 Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) across Odisha. It is designed to generate insights on key performance indicators and help local agencies track progress, identify gaps, and improve service delivery. To introduce the tool and receive feedback, NIUA organized a workshop with officers from the Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO), who are directly involved in implementing the DFT scheme. The primary objective of the workshop was to present the structure and func…
Brochure
Proliferating Ecosystem-Based Adaptation Practices in Indian Cities (EPIC): Project Brochure
2022
The EPIC project aims to integrate ecosystem-based adaptation (EbA) into urban water management strategies, using nature-based solutions to enhance resilience against climate change while preserving vital ecosystems. By tackling urban challenges such as water security, urban flooding, and biodiversity conservation, the project seeks to improve the sustainability and resilience of cities facing the impacts of climate change and rapid urbanization.Serving as a model for other cities, EPIC demonstrates how adopting EbA approaches can mitigate climate change effects and improve urban water management. It highlights the benefits of ecosystem-based solutions in sustainable urban planning, fosterin…
Publication
Drink from Tap Mission- The water supply story of Puri, Odisha
2022
The “Drink from Tap” Mission, also known as the "SUJAL" Scheme, is a significant initiative launched by the Government of Odisha's Housing & Urban Development Department in October 2020. This mission aims to ensure equitable access to safe drinking water for the people of Odisha, with a focus on providing people-centric solutions that prioritize both technology and community involvement. The Water Corporation of Odisha (WATCO), a state-owned, not-for-profit entity, is responsible for implementing the scheme, ensuring the delivery of safe and sustainable drinking water across the state.At its core, the mission combines modern technological innovations with community-driven approaches to water management, aiming to create a responsive and sustainable water distribution system. By integrating advanced technology into water supply management, the scheme ensures the efficient operation and maintenance of water systems. Moreover, by empowering local communities to take ownership of these systems, the mission fosters resilience and adaptability to the unique challenges faced by different areas. This community-led approach strengthens the connection between people and their water sources, allowing for more effective and locally-tailored solutions.The “Drink from Tap” Mission serves as a model for achieving sustainable water management by blending technological advancements with str…