Urban Self-Supply from Groundwater—An Analysis of Management Aspects and Policy Needs

Abstract

The use of private water wells for self-supply in developing cities has ‘mushroomed’ during recent decades, such that it is now an important component of total water-supply, but one all too frequently overlooked in official figures. Selected global experience of the phenomenon (from 10 cities in 3 continents) is succinctly summarized, and then analyzed from differing perspectives, before drawing recommendations on priorities for its improved management.

Keywords

• urban water-supply
• groundwater
• private self-supply
• management issues