DJB Partners with IIT-Kanpur for AI-Based Water Management
On November 13, 2025, the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) signed a significant agreement with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur to develop an artificial intelligence (AI) based urban water management model for the capital. This collaboration aims to address various urban challenges, particularly in the management of water resources in Delhi.
Overview of the Partnership
The partnership will involve the DJB working closely with IIT Kanpur’s Airawat Research Foundation, which is recognized as India’s National AI Centre of Excellence in Sustainable Cities. The focus will be on leveraging AI technologies to tackle issues such as:
- Reduction of non-revenue water
- Predictive maintenance of water infrastructure
- Real-time monitoring of water and sewage treatment plants (WTPs and STPs)
Significance of the MoU
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is described as non-financial and non-binding, allowing both institutions to commit to collaborative research, data integration, and the deployment of advanced AI technologies. DJB officials emphasized that this partnership is a crucial step towards establishing a data-driven, transparent, and accountable water governance system in Delhi.
Statements from Officials
Water Minister Parvesh Verma expressed optimism about the partnership, stating, “This partnership is a step towards a data-driven, transparent, and accountable water governance system in Delhi. These tools will help us detect problems, improve efficiency from supply to billing, and most importantly, rebuild citizens’ trust in public service delivery.”
Key Objectives of the Project
The project aims to implement AI-driven solutions to enhance various aspects of water management, including:
- Development of AI-enabled public grievance redressal systems
- Improvement of revenue management systems for better billing accuracy
- Enhancement of customer satisfaction through faster response to citizen complaints
- Support for the DJB’s clean Yamuna mission by monitoring wastewater discharge and pollution sources
Innovative Approaches to Groundwater Management
One of the notable aspects of the partnership is its focus on AI-assisted groundwater monitoring and recharge planning. This will involve the integration of data from:
- Borewells
- Various sensors
- Satellite imagery
The goal is to enable real-time tracking and sustainable management of Delhi’s aquifers, which are vital for the city’s water supply.
Project Oversight
The CEO of DJB will serve as the project director, ensuring strategic oversight and coordination for all activities under this partnership. This leadership structure is intended to facilitate effective collaboration between DJB and IIT Kanpur.
Future Implications
This partnership marks a significant advancement in the use of technology for urban water management in India. By harnessing AI, the DJB aims to modernize its operations, making them more efficient and responsive to the needs of Delhi’s residents. The integration of advanced technologies is expected to lead to better resource management, improved service delivery, and enhanced public trust in governmental water services.
Conclusion
The collaboration between the DJB and IIT Kanpur represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing the complex challenges of urban water management. As cities continue to grow and face increasing pressures on their water resources, initiatives like this will be crucial in ensuring sustainable and efficient management of vital water supplies.
Note: This article is based on the latest developments in water management initiatives in Delhi as of November 2025.
