The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has booked 112 cases against the unnecessary wastage of drinking water collecting fines up to ₹5.6 lakh in the last week.
The board issued a circular on February 17 to curb the misuse of drinking water.
“With temperatures rising daily and groundwater levels depleting owing to insufficient rainfall, the city faces a potential water shortage. A report by Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc) scientists has further highlighted the risks of groundwater depletion, prompting the board to take strict action. Under Sections 33 and 34 of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act, 1964, the use of drinking water for vehicle cleaning, gardening, construction, entertainment, decorative fountains, and other non-drinking purposes in cinema halls and malls is prohibited. Despite these regulations, many individuals and entities have continued to misuse clean water, ignoring the looming water crisis,” said Ram Prasath Manohar, Chairman, BWSSB, on Sunday.
While South Zone recorded the highest number of cases at 33, West and East zones recorded 28 cases each, and the North zone recorded 23 cases.
“Drinking water is transported to Bengaluru from nearly 100 kilometers away, making it a precious resource,” Mr. Manohar said. He urged the public to avoid wastage and collaborate with the board to ensure equitable water distribution to all areas and residents in need. He also announced that the fine campaign would be expanded in the coming days to further deter water misuse.
