Bengaluru: Cauvery pumping station maintenance to cut water across city
Bengaluru is set to undergo a major disruption in its drinking water supply, as the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has announced a 60-hour shutdown beginning September 15. The citywide cut will affect residents dependent on the Cauvery water system, which forms the backbone of Bengaluru’s supply network.
Shutdown details
According to BWSSB, Cauvery Stage V pumping stations will be shut down for scheduled maintenance between September 15 and September 17. In addition, Phase-1 and Phase-2 pumping stations of Cauvery Stages I–IV will also remain non-operational from 6 am on September 16 until 6 am on September 17.
Officials explained that the maintenance is necessary to ensure the smooth functioning of pumping stations and long-term sustainability of pipelines that transport water to the city.
Advisory for residents
The disruption is expected to affect all areas supplied by Cauvery water, which means much of Bengaluru will face shortages during the 60-hour period. Residents have been advised to store adequate water in advance and use it sparingly until the supply resumes.
Why the disruption matters
Bengaluru draws its water from a reservoir located nearly 90 kilometres away and at an elevation 350 metres lower than the city. Pumping this water uphill costs nearly ₹3 crore in electricity every day. Despite these efforts, the city currently receives only about half of its daily water requirement.
At present, the four existing stages of the Cauvery project supply around 1,460 million litres per day (MLD), while the upcoming Stage V is expected to add another 750 MLD to meet the growing demand. The current maintenance work is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen this critical infrastructure.
Outlook
While the shutdown is temporary, it highlights Bengaluru’s continuing struggle with water scarcity and dependence on the Cauvery project. The city’s growing population has put immense pressure on resources, making efficient management of supply and infrastructure all the more vital.