Using community data to improve rural water infrastructure in India

Abstract

India continues to struggle with the combined effects of water stress alongside poor access to water and sanitation. However, data-driven infrastructure planning is helping to bring a more integrated, sustainable approach to water management and the provision of water, sanitation and hygiene in rural areas. Working with non-governmental organisations in Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, a project was undertaken to introduce consistent digital data collection, analysis and sharing processes for water resources and water demand data. Key outputs from the project included a toolkit and mobile application, the wider adoption of which could transform rural water access.