Pilot of AI‑based SCADA system, launched from Jaipur’s Malviya Nagar hydrant, declared successful. In 18 days, more than four times water theft was caught and 319 tanker thefts stopped in May‑June.
Pilot project started December 2024; in the first 18 days, SCADA system caught more than four times water filling theft from tankers. In December 2025, AI technology was added and testing resumed.
Key pilot statistics
In December 2025, 301 tanker thefts were caught. In 22 days of May‑June 2025, 319 tanker thefts were stopped. In Jaipur’s Kho Nagoriya area, AI‑based SCADA system caught 846 tanker thefts and 803 in June.
System operation
The tanker valve cannot be opened without command. Software fills only the amount fed, then the valve closes automatically.
On tanker arrival, camera checks tanker number via AI, sends request to driver, and after engineer verification, valve opens.
Driver delivers filled tanker to consumer’s home, completes trip via OTP and video, and sends video and invoice to relevant authorities.
Impact on revenue and water shortage
Implementing this system on 300 tankers in Jaipur could save millions in revenue monthly. Water theft is expected to reduce eight to ten times.
Rajasthan government claims that implementing this system across the state will provide adequate drinking water to thirsty people and curb revenue theft.
Implementation challenges
Some officials of the Water Department say that curbing water theft may affect their interests, so the project has been kept in a cold basket.
Minister and other officials say it will be implemented phase‑wise after panchayat elections.
Next steps
Rajasthan government has prepared the project work and obtained IT department’s approval. Water availability is expected to increase next year, and the government vows to prevent water shortage.