India, Jan. 5 -- Complaints of contaminated drinking water are common. But when Indore, a stellar performer on the national cleanliness index, reported at least 10 deaths from toxic water, there was disbelief. Given the city's reputation for strong municipal administration, one expected it to have a robust water supply infrastructure and prompt addressing of water-related complaints. But a city's superior standing doesn't guarantee much. A Delhi Jal Board report suggests that nearly 18% of the Capital's water supply network is more than 30 years old and must be replaced.

In fact, this may be the case with most of urban India. Whether limited or extensive, the subterranean piped network is rarely serviced. The absence of a 24x7 pressurise...