Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is a decentralized solution to water scarcity. By capturing and storing rainwater, cities can reduce their dependence on groundwater. From rooftops, roads and open spaces, cities can collect and store rain for direct use or groundwater recharge. It is a vital tool for resilience and water security. It can be implemented in homes, schools, parks and institutions. 

Despite mandatory policies in cities like Chennai and Bengaluru, implementation remains uneven. Scaling up rainwater harvesting with robust design, community participation, and local governance is essential for resilient urban water management.