Karnataka Water Conservation Alert: Bengaluru Bans Drinking Water For Swimming Pools, Introduces ₹5,000 Fine

The ongoing Bengaluru water crisis witnessed a fresh development on Wednesday, as fresh restrictions on the usage of drinking water for swimming pools were imposed by the city's water management body.

The ban on the use of drinking water in swimming pools was declared by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) on Wednesday, along with the decision to impose a fine of ₹5,000 for violations, as reported by news agency ANI.

The move was initiated after the broader Karnataka Water Supply and Sewerage Board (KWSSB) had, on Friday, prohibited the use of drinking water for various purposes, including washing cars, gardening, construction, and maintenance.

These restrictions have been introduced amidst a severe water shortage in the state even before the full onset of summer. Additionally, it has been observed that more than 3,000 borewells across Bengaluru have dried up, owing to the insufficient rainfall during the past monsoon season.

Karnataka Chief Minister Denies Allegations of Cauvery River Water Release Amidst Water Crisis

In the midst of a pressing water crisis gripping the state capital, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confronted accusations from the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) regarding the release of Cauvery river water to neighboring Tamil Nadu. On Tuesday, Siddaramaiah vehemently refuted these claims, denouncing them as unfounded falsehoods.

Addressing the allegations, Siddaramaiah categorically dismissed them as baseless, asserting, "All that is a lie." He emphasized that not a single drop of water would be diverted to Tamil Nadu, especially in the current precarious situation where Karnataka's capital is grappling with severe water scarcity.

He rebuffed the notion of releasing any water to Tamil Nadu, highlighting the critical need to prioritize water retention for Karnataka's own consumption. "Who will let the water flow, that too in this situation?" Siddaramaiah queried, emphasizing the imperative of conserving every available drop for the state's inhabitants.

In a statement quoted by PTI, Siddaramaiah reiterated the state government's stance, affirming that they are resolute in withholding water from Tamil Nadu and prioritizing Karnataka's water needs above all else.