Real-time monitoring by technological tools, such as smart meters and sensors, can help big cities save up to Rs 27 lakh a day and at least 15 per cent of water that's lost owing to leakages and pilferage.

Unaccounted for water (UFW) is high at 20-50 per cent in urban India, indicative of inefficient management. The highest UFW is in the National Capital Region, says a recent report by TERI and Nasscom titled “Sustainable Tomorrow: Harnessing ICT Potential.”