The problem of water availability was a pivotal facet of daily life, particularly in urban areas, where it had to be made perennially obtainable in large quantities. Thus, apart from river water, artificial water reservoirs of massive proportions, and also step wells were constructed on a great scale in most parts of the country. These reservoirs were replenished by the annual monsoons, and considerable efforts were made to manage water conservation and its supply to the city areas. European observers were struck by the remarkable architecture of these reservoirs and the role of the communities, officials, and individuals, in their construction and upkeep. Water could also become an instrument of conflict between European personnel and Indian officials; while its conservation brought to surface the rigid sociological and community problems related to the use of water.
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