Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has intensified its efforts to curb illegal water distribution activities. Following reports of unauthorized water sales to a commercial establishment, the BWSSB has lodged a complaint against a private tanker driver named Sunil for allegedly engaging in unlawful water transactions.
According to BWSSB officials, Sunil, a registered tanker driver authorized to supply water to areas facing water scarcity, diverted the water meant for Ward 130 and sold it to a commercial entity in Ward 14th of this Month. So, BWSSB assistant engineer Karthik Manju filed a formal complaint with the Bagalagunte police, leading to the seizure of Sunil’s vehicle.
BWSSB chairman Ramprasath Manohar issued a stern warning to all private tanker owners, emphasizing the consequences of misusing water for purposes other than those authorized by the board.
Additionally, BWSSB has implemented measures to address the water scarcity issue, including banning the direct use of water from Kengeri and other 14 lakes in the city. Instead, the board has initiated efforts to replenish these lakes with secondary treated water to enhance the groundwater levels.
In recent days, BWSSB has imposed fines totaling Rs 1.1 lakh on 22 individuals for violating the prohibition on using potable water for non-essential activities such as car washing.
The severity of the water shortage in Bengaluru, estimated at 500 million litres per day (MLD), was highlighted by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah during a review meeting on March 18. He announced plans to establish an expert committee to devise long-term solutions to ensure sustainable water management and prevent future water crises.
