Bengaluru Imposes Borewell Ban Amid Alarming Groundwater Depletion
With groundwater levels plummeting to critical lows, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has imposed a ban on borewell digging this summer, allowing new permits only in exceptional cases. This move follows last year’s severe drinking water crisis, when Bengaluru’s residents faced acute shortages, exacerbating reliance on private water tanker mafias. In response to public distress, BWSSB has reinforced its water conservation measures, aiming to regulate groundwater extraction and prevent further depletion. A recent study across 50 wards of the city highlighted alarming groundwater depletion, prompting authorities to enforce strict controls on new borewell approvals.
Civic Concerns and Urban Water Management
Bengaluru, home to over 1.4 crore residents, has long struggled with water scarcity due to erratic rainfall and unregulated urban expansion. While cities like Chennai and Pune have bolstered rainwater harvesting and decentralised water management, Bengaluru continues to grapple with over-extraction of groundwater. Official data shows that in 2024, out of 2,835 applications for borewell digging, only 1,273 were approved, reflecting a tighter policy compared to last year’s approvals. BWSSB has reiterated that only emergency cases will be granted permission after verification by the Karnataka Groundwater Authority. The illegal drilling of borewells will invite strict legal action, ensuring a more sustainable approach to water resource management.
Sustainability and Alternative Water Solutions
The borewell restrictions underscore the urgent need for sustainable water management in Bengaluru. Last year, 313 new borewells were dug, but this year, BWSSB is relying on the Cauvery Phase 5 water supply, which can provide 775 million litres per day (MLD), of which only 200 MLD is currently being utilised. This shift towards surface water resources reflects a more sustainable alternative to excessive groundwater dependence. Additionally, BWSSB’s previous initiatives, such as the installation of 6,03,086 aerators in taps across public spaces and government offices, have contributed to water conservation, helping mitigate wastage. These measures highlight the importance of adopting a long-term approach rather than continuing unsustainable extraction practices.
Strict Penalties for Water Misuse
To curb water wastage, BWSSB has implemented a ₹5,000 fine on individuals misusing drinking water for activities such as car washing, gardening, and construction. Additionally, repeat offenders will face an extra ₹500 fine per day, enforced under Sections 33 and 34 of the BWSSB Act, 1964. Authorities stress that strict regulations are necessary to ensure equitable water distribution in a rapidly urbanising city. The ongoing crisis presents a wake-up call for Bengaluru’s urban planners, pushing for greater reliance on rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and sustainable consumption practices. As temperatures rise and rainfall remains unpredictable, the city must urgently prioritise long-term water security to avert future crises.
