Water Sensitive Urban Design for India: Review of Indian Knowledge Systems and Singapore's ABC Waters Programme

Abstract

Indian cities are increasingly confronting complex and interrelated water challenges driven by climate change, including prolonged droughts, high-intensity rainfall events, urban flooding, and deteriorating water quality. These issues are further compounded by the urban heat island effect, shifting monsoon patterns, and the accelerating pace of urbanization. Existing urban infrastructure, often based on externally imported planning models, remains poorly adapted to India's diverse ecological, climatic, and cultural realities. This study explores the potential of Water-Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) as a resilient, context-sensitive framework to address these mounting challenges. Through a case study-based review of Singapore's Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters Programme, the research highlights the successful integration of nature-based solutions with engineered systems to achieve multi-functional, sustainable urban water management. The study also underscores the relevance of India's indigenous knowledge systems in stormwater management and water purification, traditions deeply embedded in Ayurvedic principles, biodiversity conservation, and holistic water stewardship. Drawing from both tropical international examples and local wisdom, the paper advocates for a multidisciplinary, culturally rooted approach to urban water resilience in India.