India's Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran urged that water be treated as a planned, built and paid‑for infrastructure. He highlighted the pitfalls of zero pricing, low floor‑space index and the need for water storage buffers.

Key Takeaways

  • Water must be classified as infrastructure
  • Zero pricing harms sustainability
  • Floor‑space index reforms are essential

Main Points

Chief Economic Adviser V. Anantha Nageswaran addressed the CII Tamil Nadu Infrastructure Summit 2026 in Chennai, stating that water should be handled the same way we now treat roads and power – as a planned, built and paid‑for asset.

He warned that pricing water at zero treats it as limitless, leading to waste and chronic under‑investment. “When we call water free, we actually destroy it,” he said.

Nageswaran also flagged the low Floor Space Index (FSI) in India, which forces cities to spread outward, often converting old tanks and ponds – once vital catchments – into costly real‑estate.

Historical Background

India’s water management dates back to ancient tanks and canals, but post‑independence urban growth outpaced traditional systems, creating today’s acute water scarcity.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that a transparent water‑pricing model can unlock billions in investment for sustainable reservoirs, directly benefiting vulnerable households while curbing waste.

"Accurate pricing is the cornerstone of water security," says water‑policy expert Dr. Ravi Singh.
Did You Know?: Many historic Indian tanks still serve as primary water sources for rapidly expanding cities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: What does treating water as infrastructure entail?
Answer: It means long‑term planning, construction and a cost‑recovery mechanism for water supply.

Question 2: How can proper pricing help the poor?
Answer: Targeted subsidies can be funded through realistic tariffs, ensuring affordable water for those who truly need it.