Bengaluru Battles Water Shortage: 6,900 Borewells Dry, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah Announces Emergency Measures

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has sounded the alarm over the worsening water crisis in Bengaluru, revealing alarming statistics and outlining urgent measures to address the situation.

In a recent meeting with officials from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), and the Energy Department, CM Siddaramaiah highlighted the severity of the crisis. Out of 14,000 borewells in Bengaluru, a staggering 6,900 have already run dry. Additionally, the city's lakes are on the brink of drying up completely.

To meet the daily water requirement of 2,600 million litres per day (MLD), CM Siddaramaiah announced plans to supply water to all 110 villages surrounding Bengaluru by June. Assuring the availability of water from the Kabini and KRS dams, he expressed optimism about the upcoming monsoon, expected to hit the region in the first or second week of June.

In response to the immediate crisis, the Chief Minister instructed officials to utilize water tankers for water supply. Bengaluru currently has 142 control rooms, and Siddaramaiah has directed for their numbers to be increased. These control rooms will play a crucial role in identifying areas facing water scarcity, ensuring prompt water supply, and responding swiftly to complaints.

Furthermore, Siddaramaiah urged residents to avoid using drinking water for non-essential purposes, such as vehicle cleaning, and instead, opt for recycled water. This move is aimed at conserving precious drinking water resources during the crisis.

The CM's proactive approach and decisive measures underscore the severity of the water crisis in Bengaluru and the government's commitment to addressing the issue promptly. As the city braces for the upcoming monsoon, Siddaramaiah's action plan provides a glimmer of hope for the residents of Bengaluru and the surrounding villages.