‘There’s a big problem in BWSSB; water being taken out illegally’: Deputy CM DK Shivakumar

BENGALURU: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Thursday spoke about proposed water tariff hike and highlighted significant issues within the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). He further cited unpaid dues and illegal water connections and urged individuals to have legitimate connections and settle their payments.

“There is a big problem in the BWSSB. A lot of payments need to be made…water is being drawn illegally. We are requesting all of them to regularise the connections and pay money. All the legislators are being informed about the present status. We have to go for loans if we go for the Cauvery sixth stage project, Bengaluru will have better water supply. All those companies, bankers they are all asking how are we going to pay.., ” he said.

#WATCH | Bengaluru: On water tariff, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar says, ” There is a big problem in the BWSSB (Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board). A lot of payments need to be made…water being taken out illegally. We are requesting all of them to make connections… pic.twitter.com/qSPfT4Mw6P

— ANI (@ANI) December 5, 2024

The BWSSB chairman, Dr Ram Prasat Manohar, has also written to MLAs and elected representatives seeking their support while stating that the water tariff needs to be revised as it hasn’t been done in the last 10 years. A meeting will be held, chaired by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, to discuss the tariff revision, in the coming days.

The letter highlights the present economic condition of BWSSB and the need for a water tariff revision. The board spends Rs 170 crore monthly, but only earns Rs 129 crore. The BWSSB chairman has requested support for the tariff hike and pointed out that if it is not done, the board will face financial difficulties and affect daily operations.

On October 26, Ram Prasath Manohar, chairman of the BWSSB, issued a stern warning against individuals illegally demanding extra charges for Cauvery water connections. He emphasised that applicants should apply directly through the official BWSSB online portal and avoid intermediaries. Criminal cases will be filed against anyone misusing the BWSSB name to make illegal monetary demands, he said.

Ram Prasath Manohar said, “Obtaining a Cauvery water connection is a straightforward process. Once applications are submitted online, BWSSB officials will proceed with the necessary steps as per regulations. Demand notices specifying the regulated charges for new connections — whether for residences, apartments or commercial buildings — are issued in accordance with official rules. Upon payment of the legally stipulated charges to the BWSSB bank account, new connections will be provided in a hassle-free manner”.

Manohar has directed that criminal cases be filed promptly against anyone demanding amounts above the authorised demand notice fees. He added, “To address this issue, a specialised Vigilance Cell has been set up under the Chief Administrative Officer. This team will investigate and resolve complaints related to unlawful demands for Cauvery connections, with a commitment to swift action within 24 hours of receiving a report. Concerned citizens can email complaints, along with relevant information, to bwssbvigilance@gmail.com”. (ANI)