As temperatures climb, Bengalureans are grappling with a double crisis — sweltering heat combined with skyrocketing private water tanker rates. Several city zones, dependent on private tankers for nearly 60-70% of their daily water, are already strained as costs have surged almost twofold.

While citizens struggle, Karnataka legislators are set to benefit, with their pay packages doubling following a Bill passed during last week’s budget session.

A 6,000-litre tanker, previously priced at ₹450-₹500, now demands ₹750-₹800. Similarly, an 8,000-litre load costs ₹1,000-₹1,200, and 12,000-litre tankers have jumped from ₹1,000-₹1,300 to ₹2,200-₹2,500 in localities like Varthur, Hennur, Marathahalli, and Whitefield.

Despite BBMP having powers to control prices, officials claim they won’t interfere, terming current rates “reasonable.” One BBMP source argued the price hike may encourage judicious water usage and discourage wastage.

Residents question official inaction

Though BWSSB typically notifies BBMP about price hikes, their direct control is limited. An official pointed to their new initiative, launching by March-end, enabling residents to book Cauvery water tankers online — aimed at stabilising supply and preventing exploitation. However, citizens remain doubtful.

Last year, BWSSB capped rates at ₹600 (6,000L), ₹700 (8,000L), and ₹1,000 (12,000L). Kanakapura Apartments’ Akash D’souza questioned why people now pay ₹350-₹1,000 extra despite fixed rates.

Whitefield Rising’s Shyam M highlighted reliance on tankers due to unreplenished borewells and poor groundwater absorption.

Tanker owner Maandhar Reddy noted that sourcing water now requires 40-45 km trips, with refills taking longer as groundwater diminishes