Bengaluru Water Crisis Intensifies as Thousands of Borewells Dry Up, Private Tanker Prices Soar

The water crisis in Bengaluru has reached alarming levels, with approximately 3,000 borewells drying up and private water tankers exploiting the scarcity by charging exorbitant prices ranging from ₹500 to ₹2,000 per tanker. As residents struggle to cope with the severe shortage, the Karnataka government has initiated measures to address the grim situation.

1. Private Tanker Price Surge: Private water tankers have capitalized on the water scarcity, charging exorbitant rates for their services. Residents are compelled to pay between ₹500 and ₹2,000 per tanker, highlighting the desperation caused by the acute shortage.
2. Government Response: In response to the crisis, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced the establishment of control rooms at the Taluk level and provided helpline numbers for residents to report water-related issues. Task forces have been deployed to ensure the provision of drinking water, fodder for cattle, and employment opportunities.
3. District-Wise Crisis: At least 412 panchayats in 98 taluks across Karnataka are facing drinking water shortages, with water being supplied through 204 water tankers in 175 villages.
4. Centre’s Alleged Inaction: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has accused the Centre of failing to release ₹18,712 crore to the state to combat the drought situation, exacerbating the challenges faced by the state government.
5. Registration Deadline for Tankers: Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has revealed that out of 3,500 water tankers in Bengaluru, only 219 have registered with authorities. He has warned unregistered operators to comply before the March 7 deadline, or their tankers will be seized.
6. Innovative Solutions: The government is exploring alternative measures to address the crisis, including deploying unused milk tankers for water supply and activating dormant drinking water centers.
7. Community Responsibilities: Shivakumar has urged residents to use water judiciously, emphasizing the importance of conserving drinking water and utilizing treated water for non-essential purposes.
8. Infrastructure Challenges: Despite the existence of Cauvery river water pipelines in certain areas, residents continue to face water shortages due to delays in water connections. Borewells have dried up, exacerbating the crisis for communities reliant on groundwater.
9. Identification of Vulnerable Areas: A report by the revenue department has identified Tumakuru district as the most affected, with 746 vulnerable villages, along with Uttara Kannada having the highest number of vulnerable wards.

The escalating water crisis in Bengaluru underscores the urgent need for comprehensive water management strategies and collaborative efforts to mitigate the impact on residents’ livelihoods and well-being.

Sources By Agencies