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Bengaluru, Karnataka: In the wake of a dire water scarcity situation in Bengaluru, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has revealed that the city is currently grappling with a shortage of 500 million litres of water per day (MLD), compared to its actual requirement of 2,600 MLDs. This alarming deficit has sparked concerns about the city’s ability to meet the basic drinking water needs of its residents.
Siddaramaiah, addressing reporters on Monday, highlighted the pressing issue, stating that out of the 14,000 borewells in Bengaluru, a staggering 6,900 have dried up. This, coupled with encroachment on water bodies, has exacerbated the situation. To tackle this crisis, the CM has directed officials to hold daily meetings and devise an action plan to address the water scarcity problem.
Currently, Bengaluru receives 1,470 MLD of water from the Cauvery river and an additional 650 MLD from borewells. However, this falls short of the city’s total requirement by approximately 500 MLD.
Siddaramaiah expressed optimism about the upcoming Cauvery Five project, scheduled to commence in June. This ambitious project aims to alleviate the city’s water woes significantly. The CM emphasized that the Cauvery Five project is designed to serve 110 villages that were included in the Metropolitan Bengaluru Municipal Corporation in 2006-07.
To address the immediate water scarcity issue, the Karnataka government has outlined plans to drill borewells at 313 locations and revive 1,200 inactive borewells. Additionally, all available private tankers, including those from the Karnataka Milk Federation, will be utilized to supply water to slums, upland areas, the 110 villages, and areas dependent on borewells.
In response to the crisis, the Karnataka Water Supply and Sewerage Board recently imposed strict measures. These include a ban on the use of drinking water for car washing, gardening, construction, water fountains, and road maintenance. Violating this order can result in a fine of Rs 5,000.
Siddaramaiah assured the public that there is no shortage of funds to ensure access to drinking water. The government is also committed to replenishing dried lakes in Bengaluru with treated water, similar to the successful initiative in the KC valley. Moreover, an expert committee has been formed to prevent future water shortages, demonstrating the seriousness with which the government is approaching this critical issue.
