Bengaluru Water Crisis : BWSSB fines 22 families in Bengaluru for non-essential water usage amid crisis

Bengaluru: Amidst the ongoing water crisis in Bengaluru, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) took decisive action by imposing fines on 22 families for non-essential water usage. Each family was fined ₹5,000, amounting to a collective fine of ₹1.1 lakh, as reported by Deccan Herald.

This move comes in the wake of stringent measures implemented by the BWSSB to conserve water resources in the city. In the second week of March, the board announced a ban on the use of Cauvery water for activities such as car washing, gardening, building construction, running fountains, entertainment purposes, and more. These restrictions aim to address the critical shortage of potable water in Bengaluru.

Notably, the BWSSB also issued specific guidelines ahead of Holi celebrations, urging commercial and recreational centers to refrain from using Cauvery or borewell water for pool parties or rain dances. This directive underscores the importance of prioritizing water conservation efforts during festive occasions.

Addressing the severity of the water crisis, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah emphasized that Bengaluru is facing a shortage of approximately 500 million liters of water per day against a requirement of 2,600 MLDs. The dwindling groundwater levels and encroachment on water bodies further exacerbate the situation, highlighting the urgent need for concerted action to mitigate the crisis.

With the imposition of fines and the implementation of stringent regulations, the BWSSB aims to instill a sense of responsibility among residents and businesses to judiciously utilize water resources and alleviate the strain on the city’s water supply infrastructure.