In response to an acute water shortage gripping the city, Bengaluru has implemented stringent measures to curb wasteful consumption of drinking water. The Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board has announced penalties for individuals found misusing potable water, aiming to promote responsible water usage among residents.
The decision, aimed at addressing the pressing water crisis, underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts in the face of dwindling water resources. With Bengaluru’s staggering population of 1.3 crore, the city grapples with a daily shortfall of over 1,500 MLD (Million Liters Per Day) in meeting its water requirements, which typically range between 2,600-2,800 MLD.
Under the new regulations, residents are prohibited from using drinking water for non-essential activities such as washing vehicles, construction purposes, entertainment venues including cinema halls and malls (except for drinking purposes). Violators will face penalties amounting to ₹5,000, with repeated offenses incurring additional fines of ₹500 each time.
The announcement comes as parts of Tumakuru and Uttara Kannada districts, alongside 236 taluks across the state, grapple with water scarcity, with 219 facing severe repercussions. In light of the crisis, the state government has been exploring various solutions, including the utilization of recycled and treated water from residents’ associations.
Government efforts to address the crisis have also seen the establishment of helplines and control rooms, aimed at managing the overwhelming demand for water-related assistance. Authorities have intensified efforts to crack down on illicit water tanker operations, with rising costs prompting the Bangalore City District Collector to regulate rates for privately operated tankers over a four-month period.
As Bengaluru confronts the severity of its water scarcity, the imposition of penalties for wasteful water use marks a pivotal step towards fostering a culture of conservation and responsible water management. With concerted efforts and community participation, the city aims to mitigate the impacts of the crisis and safeguard its water resources for future generations.
Sources By Agencies