Bengaluru water crisis: Using drinking water for these activities will cost you Rs 5,000; Rs 500 daily for repeated offence

The Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) banned using drinking water for non-essential activities as the city braces for summer. The ban, effective immediately, prohibits using potable water for gardening, car washing, swimming pools, and construction. Violators face a ₹5,000 fine, with an additional ₹500 daily for repeat offenses.

Bengaluru Water Crisis: Order issued to housing societies and residents

To prevent a severe water crisis similar to last year, BWSSB issued an order on Monday to all housing societies and residential welfare associations, urging them to comply. The directive prohibits the use of drinking water for vehicle washing, gardening, construction work, decorative fountains, and cleaning in malls and cinemas under Sections 33 and 34 of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Act, 1964. Residents can report violations by calling the BWSSB helpline at 1916.

Declining groundwater levels raise concerns

The order highlights Bengaluru’s declining groundwater levels and the urgent need for conservation measures. A recent study by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) identified 80 wards, including 110 villages, as being highly dependent on groundwater and at risk of severe shortages. BWSSB has emphasized the need to explore alternative water sources for these areas.


Previous restrictions and worsening water crisisA similar ban was imposed last March, but the situation appears more critical this year due to an acute water shortage before the peak summer months. Deficient monsoon rainfall has contributed to the drying up of over 3,000 borewells across Bengaluru.

Government urges residents to use Cauvery water

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has urged Bengaluru residents to use Cauvery water instead of relying on private water tankers. BWSSB is also encouraging residents to get a Cauvery water connection to ensure a stable supply.