Is Your Borewell Legal? BWSSB's New Rule Mandates Borewell Drilling Approvals In Bengaluru

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has announced the enforcement of a rule requiring residents to seek prior approval for borewell drilling across the city.

Effective March 15, individuals or entities intending to drill borewells in Bengaluru must obtain approval through an online application on the BWSSB's official website. This decision follows a recent order prohibiting the use of potable water for non-essential purposes, with violators facing a fine of Rs 5,000.

The BWSSB chairman, Dr V Ram Prasat Manohar, emphasized the importance of this regulation under section 11 of the Karnataka Groundwater (Development and Management Regulations and Control) Act, 2011. Failure to obtain necessary permissions will result in legal action.

Approval for public tube wells will be prioritized, while private tube wells will require a thorough site inspection by officials to assess factors like groundwater levels and the necessity of the borewell. This step aims to ensure sustainable water usage in light of declining groundwater levels exacerbated by unscientific borewell drilling practices.

Bengaluru's water crisis stems from rapid urbanization, population growth, and inadequate rainfall, leading to a heavy reliance on distant water sources and unsustainable groundwater exploitation. Addressing these issues through regulatory measures is crucial for ensuring the city's water security.