The BWSSB in Bengaluru banned using drinking water for non-essential tasks due to high temperatures and falling groundwater. Offenders unlawfully using potable water in activities like washing cars, watering gardens, construction, fountains, or road cleaning will face a ₹5,000 fine for the first offense.
Repeat offenders will be fined an extra ₹500 daily by the BWSSB as per Sections 33 and 34 of the 1964 Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act. The new rules restrict commercial establishments like malls and cinemas to using water solely for drinking purposes.
BWSSB Chairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar stresses the vital need for measures to address Bengaluru’s imminent water crisis. IISc scientists cautioned about dwindling groundwater levels and insufficient rainfall leading to a potential water shortage. Last summer, Bengaluru grappled with a severe water crisis due to a deficient monsoon season, resulting in 50% of borewells drying up and a daily shortage of 300-500 million liters.
The city needs 1,450 million liters daily from the Cauvery River and 700 million from groundwater. This, coupled with decreasing resources, has exacerbated Bengaluru’s water crisis. Residents are urged to report violations of regulations to the BWSSB hotline at 1916 to conserve water.
Sources News From Various Digital Platforms, Websites, Journalists, And Agencies.
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