Bengaluru Water Crisis: BWSSB Announces 20% Supply Cut For Bulk Users

Amidst the ongoing water crisis in the city, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has enforced a prohibition on using drinking water to fill swimming pools. Consequently, pools throughout the area are compelled to temporarily cease operations, as treated water isn't utilized due to hygiene considerations. The decision was made by BWSSB, the entity responsible for the city's drinking water supply, as it grapples with meeting the demand.

Fines for Violations:

Additionally, BWSSB has issued a stern warning, threatening to levy a fine of Rs 5,000 for non-compliance with the regulations, with repeat offenders facing an additional penalty of Rs 500 on top of the initial amount.

Reduced Supply for Bulk Consumers:

In another measure, BWSSB has decided to reduce water supply to bulk users by 20 percent. Bulk users are defined as those consuming two crore liters per day, with 38 such entities identified in the city. The reduction in water supply to bulk users will be phased in starting March 15, with the conserved water to be redirected to areas facing acute shortages.

However, exemptions are granted to essential facilities such as hospitals including NIMHANS, Command Hospital, and Victoria Hospital, among others.

Furthermore, BWSSB has already prohibited the use of drinking water for car washing, construction, gardening, fountains, and maintenance work, permitting only treated water for these purposes.

To prevent overcharging by water tanker owners, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has established fixed prices for water tanker services.