Private water tankers make a killing overcharging as mercury rises in city

As Bengaluru grapples with rising temperatures, private water tankers have come under fire for overcharging residents, defying the official tariff set by the district administration. Despite last year's severe water crisis prompting the authorities to regulate prices, tanker operators continue to demand exorbitant rates, leaving citizens frustrated. According to residents, the district administration had fixed water tariffs after numerous complaints were lodged with urban local bodies. However, this summer, private tanker operators are reportedly charging double the prescribed amount in various parts of the city. In localities such as Manjunathnagar, Ramayya Layout, Dasarahalli, Peenya, and Bagalgunte, the official rate for 6,000 liters of water is set at ₹600-₹700. Meanwhile, in areas like Kengeri, RR Nagar, Nagadevanahalli, Shirke, Bhuvaneswarinagar (Kenchanapura Cross), KR Pura, and Kadugodi, the fixed price ranges between ₹800 and ₹1,000. For distances beyond 5 km, residents are being charged as high as ₹1,200-₹1,500. A resident of Peenya, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “We are being forced to pay twice the amount. Despite raising concerns, officials seem to have turned a blind eye.” With no strict enforcement from authorities, tanker operators continue to exploit the situation, leaving residents with no choice but to pay hefty sums to secure water.