The ADB Water Policy was reviewed by CURE for its pro poor content and capability to achieve MDG goals. The India study was part of a three country study; Bangladesh, Nepal and India. Four ADB water projects were reviewed; Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development Project (KUIDP II), Karnataka Urban Development and Coastal environmental management Program (KUDCEM), Rajasthan Urban Infrastructure Development Project (RUIDP) and Madhya Pradesh Urban Water Supply and Sewerage Project. Both quantitative and qualitative assessment using primary data and PLA tools was undertaken.

The study concluded that only a very small percentage of ADB loans for water supply and sanitation infrastructure is being used for services to poor households. The poor, found the study, are generally excluded from water supply planning and service provision; and that service providers lack capacity and willingness to engage with them to develop demand driven plans. The study recommended that ADB will need to both invest additional resources as also ensure specific targeting of poor within loan funds to support achievement of MDGs.