Chennai has started a major pilot project to provide 24-hour continuous piped water supply in the Adyar zone. This new system uses a ring main distribution – a looped pipeline network that joins all water sources to give equal and uninterrupted supply. Priced at ₹271.50 crore, the project aims to replace Chennai's usual time-limited water supply and uneven distribution. The city’s water reservoirs are in better shape this year, allowing officials to focus on reliable supply rather than rationing. The Water Resources Department’s careful water release strategy, supported by water transfers from the Krishna River and Veeranam Tank, helps maintain reservoir levels. The Chennai Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (CMWSSB) is upgrading water stations and pipelines with modern automated controls and real-time monitoring. They have also partnered with Odisha’s Water Corporation, which successfully ran the 'Drink from Tap Mission' in Puri. Other Indian states like Karnataka and Maharashtra are also adopting round-the-clock supply. Residents have mixed feelings but see continuous supply as a way to save groundwater, which has been falling due to urbanisation. Leader R. Krishna Mohan said, “Water-metering and regulation of borewells are critical to reduce wastage, plan for shortages, and protect what remains of the coastal aquifer.” Yet, old pipelines and contamination risks remain concerns. S. Gopi, a local resident, warned about sewage mixing with drinking water due to weak pressure and faulty alignment. Experts say preventing leaks and replacing old lines is vital before metering homes. The government’s focus now is on fair supply and demand management, boosted by new projects including the Perur desalination plant and expanded recycled water use. In the Adyar zone, boundary valves and meters will control leaks and balance pressure. The 98 km ring main pipeline will link all water sources citywide, aiming for reliable supply even if one source fails. Officials plan to install smart water meters for heavy users and expand this to all households. They will use Internet of Things (IoT) tools to pinpoint leaks and save water. Experts suggest a unified water authority to better manage fresh, recycled, and stormwater. B. Sakthivel, hydrologist, said lasting water improvements need sewerage management reform with clear performance goals. Chennai hopes to move beyond fear of water shortages in the next decade through these upgrades and smart planning.