Bengaluru
The city of Bangalore is grappling with a dual challenge as a shortage of rainfall leads to declining reservoir levels, while the escalated release of Kaveri river water to Tamil Nadu adds to the apprehensions of its residents. As the situation unfolds, queries flood the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), with citizens seeking assurance about the continuity of their water supply amidst diminishing reservoir levels. Recent data from the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Monitoring Authority indicates that the current storage in Karnataka’s reservoirs, as of August 21, stands at 79.83 thousand million cubic feet (tmcft), a stark contrast to last year’s 112.65 tmcft during the same period. Addressing these concerns, BWSSB President N Jayaram has emphatically stated that the water supply will not be interrupted. The city will continue to receive its usual share of water, with an impressive 1,450 million liters per day (MLD) being supplied to Bangalore daily. Officials from both the Jalmandal (Water Resources Department) and BWSSB reiterated that water reserves have been earmarked for both irrigation and the crucial drinking water needs of Bangalore’s residents. Government authorities have also assured the public that ensuring water for irrigation and the city’s drinking water requirements remains a paramount priority. Despite the ongoing monsoon season and the possibility of upcoming rains, authorities are prepared for contingencies. Even in the absence of substantial rainfall, the city’s water supply is expected to remain steady. BWSSB has proactively initiated measures such as borewell water supply and maintenance in areas under the city’s municipal corporations to bolster the water supply. Notably, plans are in motion to address water scarcity in remote areas. In response to concerns about misallocation of funds for unsuccessful borewell projects, a thorough review process is set to be implemented.
