A resident of Vignananagar in east Bengaluru faced the consequences of misusing potable water on the occasion of Ugadi. Attempting to wash his scooter with water from the Cauvery river, supplied by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), he was fined Rs 5,000.
This incident is one of 407 cases reported in the past month alone, where individuals have been caught using potable water for non-essential purposes like vehicle washing and gardening. Since March 10, BWSSB has strictly prohibited such usage, urging the public to opt for treated water instead.
BWSSB records show that fines totaling Rs 20.3 lakh have been collected from violators. Suresh B, chief engineer of BWSSB, clarified that fines are issued only after confirming that the water used is not treated. 90% of fines relate to vehicle washing, while 10% are for gardening activities.
BWSSB officials have issued warnings and stiffer penalties for repeat offenders. Each subsequent violation incurs an additional Rs 500 alongside the standard Rs 5,000 fine.
While BWSSB mentions the necessity of penalties, their primary goal is water conservation amid ongoing shortages. They urge residents to cooperate by avoiding wasteful practices.
Meanwhile, the Hyderabad water board clarified speculations of a water crisis similar to Bengaluru’s. Officials highlighted Hyderabad’s superior water supply, with a daily provision of 2,610 million litres compared to Bengaluru’s 1,460 MLD.
