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The city of Bengaluru, India, is grappling with a looming water crisis, prompting the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to implement stringent measures to curb water wastage. The depletion of groundwater reserves, exacerbated by prolonged dry spells and rising temperatures, has led to alarmingly low water levels. Scientific reports from institutions like the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have underscored the urgency of the situation, painting a grim picture of potential water scarcity in the coming months. In response to this critical situation, the BWSSB has introduced a new set of regulations designed to ensure the responsible and efficient use of the city's precious drinking water resources.
Effective immediately, the BWSSB has introduced a system of fines for individuals and entities found to be misusing potable water. The new regulations explicitly prohibit the use of drinking water for non-essential purposes. This includes activities such as washing vehicles, maintaining kitchen gardens, construction work, powering decorative fountains, and cleaning roads. Furthermore, the use of drinking water for recreational purposes in establishments like cinemas and malls is strictly forbidden. These restrictions are backed by the legal framework of Sections 33 and 34 of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act of 1964, providing the BWSSB with the authority to enforce these regulations and impose penalties on violators.
The penalties for violating these new water conservation regulations are substantial. A first offense will result in a fine of ₹5,000, levied under Section 109 of the Water Board Act. Repeat offenders will face even harsher penalties, with an additional ₹5,000 fine for subsequent violations. Moreover, a daily fine of ₹500 will be added for each day the violation continues. To encourage community participation in conserving water, the BWSSB has urged residents to remain vigilant and report any observed violations. A dedicated call center, accessible at 1916, has been established to receive and process these complaints. This community-based approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of the water conservation initiative.
The chairman of the BWSSB, Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar, has emphasized the critical importance of these measures in mitigating the potential impact of the anticipated water shortage. In an official statement, he highlighted the need to conserve precious water resources and prevent the city from experiencing a severe water crisis. The implementation of these fines represents a significant step towards water conservation in Bengaluru, signaling a shift towards a more responsible approach to managing the city's water resources. The initiative reflects a growing awareness of the environmental challenges facing the city and the urgent need for collective action to ensure the sustainable use of water.
Beyond the immediate implementation of these regulations, the BWSSB’s action underscores the broader need for long-term sustainable water management strategies in Bengaluru. This includes exploring alternative water sources, improving water infrastructure, and promoting public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about responsible water usage. The success of these new regulations will depend not only on strict enforcement but also on the active cooperation and participation of Bengaluru's residents. The city’s future water security hinges on a collective commitment to conserve this vital resource. The fines serve as a crucial tool, but a lasting solution requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the immediate crisis and the underlying causes of water scarcity in the region.
Source: Karnataka: Bengaluru Water Board to impose fines on drinking water wastage