Bengaluru: We all know that several parts of Karnataka have been reeling under severe drought conditions. The rains have been scarce this monsoon season and the well in many regions have dried up. The state capital, Bengaluru is also facing a water crisis. As per reports, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is the main agency that manages the drinking water supply, but it can provide it to only about 60% of the city.
The state government is considering enforcing a five-year ban on the construction of apartments in Bengaluru city considering the water crisis faced by the state.
DCM and minister for Bengaluru development Dr G Parameshwara had on Thursday, said that the issue would be discussed with builders and developers before a decision is taken.
He explained that the government is planning a five-year ban on approvals for construction because many apartments were constructed without ensuring an adequate supply of drinking water for the residents. This trend, he added, has led to a majority of apartment owners to rely on water tankers.
He added that once the apartments constructions are banned, the government will look to improve the water supply by taking up new projects.
Stating that the fifth phase of Cauvery drinking water supply project that is presently under implementation cannot meet the growing demand in Bengaluru, he informed that the government is looking at other options. He added that the ban on construction would be lifted if things improved after five years.
Regarding the government’s proposal to draw water from the Linganamakki dam built on the Sharavathi river and supply it to Bengaluru city, Parameshwara informed that further steps would be taken only after receiving the detailed project report on the proposal.
