As summer approaches, the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has imposed a ban on using potable water for activities not related to drinking or cooking. This includes practices like gardening, washing cars, filling swimming pools, and construction work. The board has warned that those who break this rule will face a fine of ₹5,000, along with an additional ₹500 per day for repeat offenses.
Bengaluru is once again at risk of a water shortage this year due to decreasing groundwater levels. To avoid a severe crisis similar to the one faced last year, the BWSSB issued a directive on Monday urging all housing societies and residential associations to follow the water usage restrictions. The new rules prohibit using drinking water for activities such as vehicle cleaning, lawn care, construction projects, decorative fountains, and mall or cinema cleaning. These restrictions are enforced under Sections 33 and 34 of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act, 1964. The public is encouraged to report any violations to the BWSSB helpline at 1916.
The order also highlighted Bengaluru’s shrinking groundwater reserves and the urgent need for conservation strategies to avert a looming water crisis. According to a recent study by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), 80 wards, including 110 villages, are heavily reliant on groundwater and are in danger of facing severe shortages. The BWSSB stressed the importance of identifying alternative water sources for these areas.
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