Full formGeneral
NRWstands forNon-Revenue Water
Full Form of NRW
What is NRW?
Non-Revenue Water (NRW) refers to the volume of water lost or unaccounted for in a water supply system before it reaches paying customers. It includes physical losses from leaks, bursts, and spills, as well as commercial losses from theft, meter inaccuracies, and unbilled consumption. In India, NRW levels are alarmingly high, often exceeding 40% in many urban and rural water utilities, leading to severe financial strain and resource wastage. The term is widely used by municipal corporations, state water boards, and infrastructure agencies when planning water conservation, leakage management, and tariff reforms. NRW is a critical performance indicator targeted under national programs like the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) and Jal Jeevan Mission. Engineering and public policy examinations, such as Civil Services Exams and state engineering services, frequently feature questions on NRW reduction strategies, including district metered areas, pressure management, and active leakage control. Understanding NRW is vital for professionals in water resources, urban planning, and environmental engineering to ensure sustainable water supply in India's growing cities.
NRW का फुल फॉर्म
गैर-राजस्व जल
Example
The Delhi Jal Board has set a target to bring down NRW from the current 45% to 20% by 2030 through smart metering and pipeline renovation.
NRW — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of NRW?
The full form of NRW is Non-Revenue Water, which is the water that is produced but does not generate any revenue due to losses or unbilled usage.
Why is NRW a major issue in Indian cities?
NRW is a major issue because Indian cities often lose 40–50% of water supply due to aging pipes, leaks, and theft, leading to revenue deficits and water scarcity.
How can NRW be reduced in India?
NRW can be reduced by implementing measures such as district metered areas (DMAs), pressure management, active leakage detection, smart metering, and public awareness campaigns.