Amidst a severe water shortage in Bengaluru, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) mandated the installation of aerators for water taps used by bulk users by the end of March. However, a sudden surge in demand for these flow restrictors has led to a shortage in the market, leaving consumers struggling to comply with the directive.
Mandatory Installation:
The BWSSB’s decision to make aerators compulsory was aimed at curbing water consumption, with the board threatening to cut water supply by 50% to bulk users failing to install flow restrictors and imposing fines of Rs 5,000.
Supply Shortage:
Consumers have reported difficulties in sourcing aerators following the BWSSB’s directive, with the sudden spike in demand outstripping the available supply in the market. Despite around four lakh aerators already being installed, demand continues to exceed supply, leading to delays in compliance.
Industry Response:
Satish Mallya, General Secretary of the Bangalore Apartment Federation (BAF), highlighted the challenges faced by suppliers who struggle to meet the soaring demand for aerators. While some apartments already had aerators installed, others are now rushing to comply with the mandate, further exacerbating the supply shortage.
Impact on Water Consumption:
BWSSB officials emphasize the effectiveness of aerators in reducing water consumption, with installations resulting in a significant decrease in water usage. By restricting the flow rate from taps, aerators can reduce consumption from 10 litres per minute to just 3 litres per minute, thereby conserving water resources.
Long-Term Solutions:
In addition to promoting aerator usage, the BWSSB is exploring long-term solutions for water conservation. Plans include expanding the capacity of treated water facilities, implementing AI chatbots to address grievances, and enhancing rainwater harvesting systems across the city. These measures aim to alleviate the current water crisis and foster sustainable water management practices in Bengaluru.
