Bengaluru: ₹5,000 fine for using drinking water for non-essential activities
What's the story
The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has banned the use of drinking water for non-essential activities in Bengaluru. The decision comes as the city faces rising temperatures and depleting groundwater levels. First-time violators misusing potable water for activities like vehicle washing, gardening, construction work, decorative fountains, or road cleaning will be fined ₹5,000.
Recurring fines
Repeat offenders face daily penalties
The BWSSB has also said that repeat offenders will face an additional daily fine of ₹500. This ban was imposed under Sections 33 and 34 of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act 1964. Commercial establishments such as malls and cinema halls can now use water only for drinking purposes, according to the new rules.
Crisis severity
BWSSB Chairman underscores severity of water crisis
BWSSB Chairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar has emphasized the need for these measures to tackle Bengaluru's looming water crisis. Indian Institute of Science (IISc) scientists had warned of a possible water shortage in the near future as groundwater levels fall and rainfall remains insufficient. Last summer, Bengaluru faced a major water crisis after a failed monsoon season left half of its 14,000 borewells dry and a daily deficit of 300-500 million liters.
Demand-supply gap
Bengaluru's water demand exceeds supply
The city's daily water requirement is around 1,450 million liters from the Cauvery River and another 700 million liters from groundwater sources. This high demand and dwindling resources have worsened the water crisis in Bengaluru. The BWSSB is asking residents to report any violations of these new regulations by calling their call center at 1916, in a bid to ensure compliance and save the city's precious water resources.