Bengaluru hit by soaring water tanker prices amid summer heat

As summer sets in, Bengalureans are grappling with a dual crisis—scorching heat and skyrocketing private water tanker prices. Many parts of the city, which depend on private tankers for 60-70% of their water supply, are feeling the burden as rates have nearly doubled. Even as residents struggle, Karnataka’s legislators are set to receive a 100% salary hike, following the passage of a Bill during the recent budget session. A 6,000-litre tanker, which earlier cost between ₹450 and ₹500, now costs up to ₹750-800, while an 8,000-litre tanker is priced at ₹1,000-1,200. The cost of a 12,000-litre tanker has surged to ₹2,200-2,500 from ₹1,000-1,300 in areas like Varthur, Hennur, Marathahalli, and Whitefield. Despite the steep hike, BBMP officials have indicated that they do not plan to intervene, stating that the rates remain affordable. A BBMP official justified the increase, arguing that higher prices would encourage responsible water usage and reduce wastage. Although the BWSSB typically informs BBMP of private tanker price changes, an official clarified that they lack direct authority to regulate the rates. He added that a new initiative, launching by March-end, will allow residents to book Cauvery water tankers online, aiming to stabilize supply in areas without piped water and curb private tanker overcharging. However, residents remain skeptical. Last year, BWSSB had temporarily capped tanker prices for four months, setting rates at ₹600 for a 6,000-litre tanker, ₹700 for an 8,000-litre tanker, and ₹1,000 for a 12,000-litre tanker. Akash D’Souza, a member of the Kanakapura Apartments Association, questioned why residents are now being forced to pay ₹350 to ₹1,000 extra despite these official benchmarks.