BWSSB bans potable water for non-essential use in Bengaluru with Rs 5,000 fine

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has imposed an immediate ban on the use of potable water for non-essential purposes across Bengaluru. The decision comes in response to declining groundwater levels and inadequate rainfall, with the goal of conserving drinking water for the city's rapidly growing population of nearly 1.4 crore.

Under the new order, the use of drinking water has been strictly prohibited for activities such as washing vehicles, watering gardens and lawns, construction work, and operating decorative fountains. The ban also extends to road construction and cleaning, as well as non-drinking purposes within cinema halls and shopping malls.

The BWSSB issued the directive under Sections 33 and 34 of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act, 1964. The board stated that these preventive measures are necessary to ensure an equitable supply of drinking water across the city and to prevent severe water shortages in the coming months.

According to the board, the decision follows a report by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). The IISc study found that groundwater levels have fallen in several parts of Bengaluru due to poor rainfall. This environmental strain, combined with the pressure of the city's expanding population and its floating population, prompted the immediate conservation measures.

The authorities have introduced strict penalties to enforce the ban. Anyone found violating the order will face a fine of Rs 5,000 under Section 109 of the Act. Repeat offenders will be required to pay an additional penalty of Rs 500 per day, in addition to the initial fine.

The BWSSB has appealed to all citizens to use water resources judiciously and cooperate with the new regulations. Members of the public can report any violations of the ban to the authorities by calling the BWSSB helpline at 1916.