Bengaluru is currently experiencing a critical water shortage caused by the depletion of borewells due to insufficient rainfall. Residential communities are urging residents to use water wisely in their daily activities. In the midst of this situation, numerous private water tankers are imposing high charges on residents for water delivery. Shivakumar commented, “Certain tankers are providing water for Rs 600, while others are demanding as much as Rs 3,000. To establish uniform pricing, we have requested all water tankers to register with the relevant authorities. Rates will be determined according to the distance covered by the tankers.”
The Deputy Chief Minister criticized the Centre for obstructing the Mekedatu reservoir project, which was aimed at addressing the water scarcity in Bengaluru. Despite our efforts to push for the project’s approval through padyatras, the Centre has not given its consent. Given the gravity of the situation, the Centre should now expedite the approval process for the project.
The Chief Minister, along with the Revenue minister, RDPR minister, and other officials, deliberated on the drought situation. Instructions have been issued to utilize water sources within a 15 km radius of cities to cater to the water needs of urban areas. Additionally, plans have been made to transport water to Bengaluru City from Ramanagara, Hosakote, Channapatna, Magadi, and other nearby towns using water tankers.
