Bengaluru to impose hefty fines for wastage of drinking water
Bengaluru Cracks Down on Wastage of Drinking Water
In an effort to prevent a repeat of last summer’s massive water crisis, the city of Bengaluru has implemented strict measures to curb the wastage of drinking water. The Bengaluru water board has announced that using drinking water for non-essential purposes, such as car washing and gardening, will now incur a steep fine of Rs 5000. Repeat offenders will face additional penalties, with fines increasing for each subsequent violation.
Prohibition on Non-Essential Use of Drinking Water
According to a statement released by the water board, the use of drinking water for activities like vehicle washing, gardening, construction, decorative fountains, entertainment purposes, and non-drinking purposes in cinema halls and malls is strictly prohibited within the city limits of Bengaluru. Violators will be fined Rs 5,000 under Section 109 of the Water Board Act, with additional penalties for repeat offenses and continued non-compliance. Residents are encouraged to report violations by contacting the call center number 1916.
Groundwater Depletion and Potential Water Shortage
The water board’s decision to crack down on wastage of drinking water comes amidst concerns about declining groundwater levels and a looming water shortage in the city. With temperatures on the rise and a lack of significant rainfall, reports from scientists at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) have raised alarm bells about the availability of water in the coming months. Bengaluru reported a maximum temperature of 32 degrees Celsius on Monday, further exacerbating concerns about water scarcity.
Lessons from Last Summer’s Water Crisis
Bengaluru faced a severe water crisis last summer following a failed monsoon season. Half of the city’s 14,000 borewells ran dry, leading to a daily shortage of 300-500 million litres of water. Bengaluru relies on nearly 1450 million litres per day (MLD) of water from the Cauvery River, in addition to 700 MLD from groundwater sources. The crisis served as a wake-up call for the city to prioritize water conservation and sustainable water management practices.
Conclusion
As Bengaluru takes proactive steps to conserve its precious water resources, it is imperative for residents and businesses to play their part in reducing wastage and using water responsibly. By enforcing strict penalties for the misuse of drinking water, the city aims to ensure a sustainable water supply for its growing population. Through collective efforts and awareness, Bengaluru can mitigate the risks of future water crises and build a more resilient water infrastructure for generations to come.