BWSSB books 800 cases, collects ₹30 lakh for drinking water misuse in July
The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has booked nearly 800 cases of drinking water misuse and collected over ₹30 lakh in penalties in July alone, officials said on Tuesday. The enforcement drive comes less than a month after the board issued fresh orders restricting the use of potable water in the city.
On July 5, the BWSSB issued three orders to conserve drinking water in view of a deficient monsoon this year and an anticipated water-stressed summer in 2027. The orders prohibit the use of potable water for washing vehicles, construction, gardening, filling swimming pools, and other non-essential purposes. They also mandate the installation of aerators on all public taps.
Most of the booked cases pertain to the use of drinking water for construction and vehicle washing, according to board sources. While major builders have shifted to treated water, smaller units continue to use potable water. An official noted that many are under the mistaken impression that borewell water is permissible for construction and only Cauvery water is banned. The board clarified that use of any potable water is not allowed.
Aerators are devices that mix air with water, reducing the flow rate without compromising pressure. By installing them on public taps, the BWSSB aims to curb wastage in public spaces such as parks, markets, and government buildings. The board has so far installed over 38,000 aerators as of July 30, and the cost has been recovered from the owners of the premises.
The BWSSB had set July 31 as the deadline for voluntary installation of aerators. Following that, inspection teams have been visiting public spaces to verify compliance. Officials have also urged citizens to report any instances of drinking water misuse, including the use of potable water for construction or vehicle washing.
Repeat offenders face stricter action, including possible disconnection of water supply, the board has warned. The fine collected from the violations is expected to be utilised for water conservation infrastructure and public awareness campaigns.
In addition to enforcement, the BWSSB has launched an awareness campaign in multiple languages to educate residents and commercial establishments about the new regulations. The board has also made it clear that the restrictions apply to all types of potable water, whether from the Cauvery scheme, borewells, or tankers, and not just to surface water sources.
The enforcement drive is part of the BWSSB's broader efforts to ensure sustainable water use in the city, especially as the summer of 2027 is projected to bring acute water stress. With the monsoon this year being deficient, the board has taken proactive measures to safeguard drinking water supplies for essential needs.
