Amid crisis, Bengaluru bans potable water usage for car washing, gardening; imposes Rs 5,000 fine

Bengaluru is currently grappling with one of its most severe water crises even before the peak of summer. According to BWSSB, the situation is manageable in core areas but critical in the city's outer regions, especially near tech corridors where there is no piped supply of water from the Cauvery River.

In the wake of the severe water crisis, Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has banned potable water usage for non-essential purposes.

As per a BWSSB order dated March 7, use of drinking water for cleaning vehicles, gardening, fountains, construction of buildings and roads, and maintenance is strictly prohibited. Malls and theaters are permitted to use water only for drinking purposes.

BWSSB will levy a penalty of Rs 5,000 for first time offence. Repeated offence will attract an additional penalty of Rs 500 per day.

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BWSSB also urged residents to report violations to the board's call center (1916). Officials state that, in response to soaring temperatures and depleting groundwater levels in Bengaluru, BWSSB issued a crucial Prohibitory Order under Sections 33 and 34 of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act 1964. The directive aims to address the urgent need for water conservation in the city. The public also urged the use of drinking water judiciously, emphasising essential purposes to combat the water shortage, it said.

In light of the acute water shortage, many Residents Welfare Associations have already imposed restrictions on water usage, with some even prohibiting swimming pools and car washing.

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