BENGALURU: With Shivaratri approaching, the scorching summer heat is already making its presence felt. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is taking proactive measures to ensure a steady supply of drinking water in the city as the summer season approaches.
The BWSSB has convened a meeting with officials to discuss the impending water crisis and has planned to supply water through tankers in areas prone to water scarcity. Alternative arrangements are also being made in case of an emergency.
Currently, the Cauvery river has 54 tmcft of water, which is sufficient to meet Bengaluru’s needs until July. However, the BWSSB is preparing for a situation when groundwater level will dip during the summer, and has taken steps to maintain the borewells.
Last year, the BWSSB took over the maintenance of borewells to prevent a decline in the groundwater level. Plans are also afoot to supply water through tankers in areas where it’s needed.
The BWSSB has warned that it will impose fines on those wasting Cauvery water or using it for unauthorised purposes like washing of two-wheelers and cars. A team of observers and Blue Force personnel will be monitoring the situation.
Water Board chairman Ram Prasath Manohar told Public TV, “Over the last two years, we have been managing the drinking water situation effectively. With the summer approaching, we may face problems in elevated areas and where ground water table has depleted. However, we are adequately prepared”.
“After the commissioning of the Cauvery Phase-5 project, we are getting 775 mld of water of which we are currently using 400 mld and we still have 375 mld of unused water. So, there is no chance of water shortage during summer. In places where there may be problems we have discussed contingency plans during a preparatory meeting and hence, people need not worry”, he said.
Further, Manohar said, “The KRS dam had filled twice this year and there is adequate water. In places where ground water level is low, we will supply water through tankers. People should help conserve water and not waste it. Those misusing water will be fined Rs 5,000”.
The BWSSB has urged public to use water judiciously to avoid shortages and penalties. With the summer season just around the corner, the BWSSB is bracing itself for potential water scarcity issues, which could be exacerbated by neighbouring Tamil Nadu’s water demands.
