Water relations are complex and require sophisticated culture. You are right there were cities thriving in arid climate like Karakorum dessert or Palestine. Ancient Rome had been able to supply more fresh water to the Rome via aqueduct system then entire New York used up to 1980s.
Some societies created intricate cultures like subak in Bali.
The practical question is if India can reform its water policy within years left before certain cities will start to die. Because they will otherwise.
Some societies created intricate cultures like subak in Bali.
The practical question is if India can reform its water policy within years left before certain cities will start to die. Because they will otherwise.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Subak_(irrigation)
https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2016/aug/12/lost-cities-m...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roman_aqueduct