In anticipation of looming water scarcity during summer, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has issued a stringent order on February 17 to regulate the consumption of drinking water. The board has introduced fines for individuals found using drinking water for non-essential activities such as car washing, gardening, road cleaning, and other similar purposes.
Under the new directive, the offenders who violate the rule will face a fine of Rs 5,000. Repeat offenses will attract an additional daily penalty of Rs 500, up to a maximum of Rs 5,000, BWSSB said.
BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasat Manohar said that the new measures align with Sections 33 and 34 of the BWSSB Act 1964, under Clause 109, aimed at preserving drinking water supplies. The board has also prohibited the use of drinking water for purposes including watering fountains, construction, and in theaters and cinema halls.
To enforce the order, the board has encouraged the public to report violations through the BWSSB toll free number 1916.
BWSSB has also addressed concerns regarding the high pricing of tanker water. To bring transparency to the pricing system, the board has introduced fixed rates for tanker water. According to the latest circular, prices range from Rs 750 to Rs 1200 for tankers transporting 6000 to 12,000 liters of water over distances of 5 to 10 kilometers.