The development of water security index in urbanized sub-Himalayan region: the study of Jammu city

Abstract

ABSTRACT As small and medium-sized cities of Himalayan and Sub-Himalayan India are rapidly urbanizing, certain structural issues like water management, climate change, the economic conditions, and poor urban planning contribute to growing water insecurity. The Jammu city in India’s sub-Himalayan region relies heavily on water from the Tawi River, a tributary of the Chenab River, and also from the groundwater sources for personal and commercial uses. As the city stares at uncertain future scenario, implementing city-specific equitable water supply strategies is the only way forward. This research using Water Security Assessment Framework with five major dimensions (water supply and sanitation; water productivity; water-related disasters; water environment; and water governance) and twelve related indicators, quantifies the water security index for Jammu city. It further finds that the sub-Himalayan city needs a comprehensive and integrated strategy for planning and managing urban water.