Bengaluru: Amid a major crisis of water in the city, the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board has introduced penalties for the wasteful use of drinking water. This measure aims to instill a sense of responsibility among residents and promote the judicious utilization of this precious resource.
Under the newly implemented regulations, violators will face a penalty of Rs 5,000, with repeat offenders subject to an additional fine of Rs 500 for each subsequent violation, as decided by the board.
The board has emphasized the urgent need for conserving water resources and has urged citizens to adopt economical practices.
Residents are encouraged to refrain from using drinking water for non-essential purposes such as washing vehicles, construction activities and entertainment, including its use in cinema halls and malls, unless for drinking purposes.
Bengaluru houses a population of 1.3 crore and is grappling with a staggering shortfall of over 1,500 MLD (Million Liters Per Day) in its daily water requirements, which typically range between 2,600-2,800 MLD.
The water scarcity extends beyond Bengaluru’s borders, with parts of Tumakuru and Uttara Kannada districts also identified as vulnerable areas by the revenue department.
A stark reality emerges as 236 taluks across the state have been declared drought-stricken, with 219 facing severe repercussions.
The state government is exploring various solutions, including the utilisation of recycled and treated water from residents’ associations to mitigate the Bengaluru water crisis. However, the existing helplines and control rooms set up by the government are reportedly overwhelmed, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Authorities are also cracking down on illicit water tanker operations, which have exacerbated the crisis. In response to soaring tanker costs, the Bangalore City District Collector has intervened by setting rates for 200 privately operated tankers for a four-month period, aiming to regulate prices and ensure fair access to water resources for all residents.
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