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This research paper by the World Resources Institute argues that global indicators from UNICEF and the WHO overestimate urban water access in the global south. Based on an analysis of 15 cities, the paper finds that nearly half of households lack piped utility water, leading them to rely on private sources that are significantly more expensive. It critiques the corporatization and privatization of water utilities and proposes four action areas—extending piped networks, addressing intermittent service, improving affordability for low-income users, and upgrading informal settlements—to ensure equitable access amidst challenges like climate change and population growth.