Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) officials have uncovered a significant issue of illegal drainage connections across Bengaluru, identifying 2,929 unauthorized connections during recent inspections of over 18,000 buildings by June 24. This revelation comes amidst efforts by BWSSB to regulate and streamline drainage infrastructure across the city, prompted by concerns over environmental impact and operational strain.
According to BWSSB authorities, the inspection drive commenced following directives from Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar to curb the improper discharge of sewage into stormwater drains. Such practices not only compromise environmental integrity but also exert undue pressure on BWSSB’s drainage network, affecting its functionality and efficiency. The board has initiated measures to rectify the situation, urging affected individuals to legalise their connections by paying stipulated fees. This move is anticipated to generate substantial revenue for BWSSB, with expectations running into lakhs of rupees from the regularization process. In an effort to enforce compliance, BWSSB officials will issue notices to property owners found with illegal drainage connections. Failure to respond to these notices will result in penalties, with fines amounting to Rs 5,000 per violation. This stern approach underscores BWSSB’s commitment to ensuring adherence to regulatory standards and enhancing the city’s drainage management capabilities. The discovery of nearly 3,000 illegal connections highlights systemic challenges in urban infrastructure governance and underscores the need for robust regulatory oversight. Bengaluru’s rapid urbanization has placed immense pressure on its civic amenities, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard environmental sustainability and public health.
