Co-production through tacit knowledge for water resilience

Abstract

The present form of Urbanisation Pattern in India cannot sustain the water requirements in cities, especially in semi-arid regions of India. The tacit knowledge of water resilience has been used since time immemorial to tap and address water demand and risk in India. Now is the right time to blend the traditional and modern technology to address water issues for water resilience. This paper explores the traditional knowledge and its usage in water management system in semi-arid areas and how water resilience can be achieved through co-production of water at a local level in Jodhpur City in the state of Rajasthan. It explores how the water system has been losing its value due to degradation caused by the spatial expansion of the city. It analyses water stress both in terms of water scarcity as well as managing the excess. Using primary and secondary data gathered, the paper proposes ways of co-production of water with community for sustainability and resilience. It suggests eco-restoration of traditional water system, importance of inclusion of varied actors, etc in addition to addressing SDG 6, and using ISO/BIS standards for water resilience.