BWSSB's Stern Warning: No Cauvery Water For Ganesha Idol Immersion, Fines To Be Imposed

In a bid to conserve water for essential purposes like drinking and daily use, the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has issued a stern warning against using Cauvery water to immerse Ganesha idols during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. The board has stressed the need to prioritize water conservation, given the limited availability of Cauvery water, the primary source for Bengaluru.

BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasad Manohar, a former District Collector of Bellary, has been actively working to curb water wastage since taking office. The board has implemented strict measures to ensure efficient use of Cauvery water, which is still insufficient to meet the city's growing needs.

Last year's severe water shortages due to a statewide drought led to a ban on non-essential water usage from January to June. The board restricted the use of Cauvery water for gardening, car washing, and construction, and shut down swimming pools using this water source. Illegal water tanker operations were targeted, and hotels and apartments were encouraged to adopt water-saving measures, conserving millions of liters.

Although recent rains have replenished the Krishna Raja Sagara (KRS) dam, the main source of Cauvery water, the BWSSB remains committed to promoting responsible water usage. The existing ₹5,000 fine for using Cauvery water for car washing will now be applied to those using it to wash or dissolve Ganesha idols during the festival.

The BWSSB has urged residents to use water judiciously during the festival to avoid penalties and ensure a consistent supply for essential needs as the city's population and demand for water continue to rise. The board is currently receiving 1,450 million liters per day (MLD) of Cauvery water, which is still insufficient to meet the city's growing needs.