The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has imposed fines of ₹5,000 each on 22 families in Bengaluru for using Cauvery water for non-essential purposes during the prevailing water crisis. According to a report by Deccan Herald, the BWSSB has collectively collected ₹1.1 lakh in fines so far.
The action was taken in response to social media complaints alleging the misuse of drinking water for unnecessary activities like car washing and gardening. The BWSSB’s south division has reportedly adopted stringent measures to curb water wastage.
Last week, the BWSSB imposed regulations for Holi celebrations scheduled for March 25 in the city. The board has advised commercial and recreational establishments against using Cauvery or borewell water for pool parties or rain dances to commemorate the festival.
In compliance with the BWSSB’s directive, numerous hotels in Bengaluru have removed ‘rain dance’ from their promotional material for Holi festivities.
The order issued by the BWSSB stated, “Organizing entertainment activities like rain dances and pool parties for commercial purposes is not advisable at this time. The use of Cauvery water and borewell water is prohibited in the public interest.”
Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had previously highlighted that Bengaluru is facing a shortfall of about 500 million liters of water per day (MLD) against the requirement of 2,600 MLD. He instructed officials to convene daily meetings and devise an action plan to address the water scarcity issue.
The Chief Minister noted that Bengaluru receives 1,470 MLD of water from the Cauvery River and 650 MLD from borewells. He emphasized the pressing need for water conservation measures, highlighting the depletion of borewells and encroachment on water bodies in the city.
