From Policy presence to enforceability: evaluating water circularity in the Indian construction frameworks

Abstract

With increasing water scarcity and accelerating urbanization in India, embedding circular water practices within the construction sector has become a critical imperative. This study undertakes a comprehensive evaluation of how Indian policies, standards, regulations, and green certifications address principles of water reuse and circularity across the building lifecycle. Using a structured assessment framework centred on eight key Construction Water Principles (CWPs) —such as water demand reduction, greywater reuse, rainwater harvesting, and lifecycle-based water planning—the research assesses each document based on three parameters: Presence (whether a principle is acknowledged), Strength (the technical clarity and detail), and Enforceability (the existence of legal and institutional mechanisms). These parameters are scored on a standardized scale to allow comparative analysis. The findings indicate that while several national frameworks exhibit strong recognition and moderate technical guidance, there is a consistent shortfall in legal enforceability and accountability. Critical gaps persist in areas such as dual plumbing mandates, construction-phase reuse, and integrated infrastructure planning. The study demonstrates that policies often remain symbolic in nature, with limited translation into implementable actions. To address these issues, the research proposes a replicable and scalable evaluation model that can help policymakers, regulatory bodies, and practitioners diagnose gaps and align regulatory instruments with circular water goals. Ultimately, the framework aims to shift focus from policy recognition to practical execution, advancing water sustainability in India’s construction ecosystem.