BWSSB Gets India’s First BIS Water Certification
The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has made history by becoming the first water board in India to receive the prestigious Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification for its piped drinking water supply management system. This recognition marks a significant milestone in India’s water management sector and sets a high standard for utilities across the country.
The certification, awarded after a thorough six-month evaluation, acknowledges BWSSB’s adherence to international water management standards. It highlights the exchange of best practices and rigorous processes that ensure the safe, efficient, and sustainable delivery of clean drinking water to Bengaluru’s residents.For a city like Bengaluru, where rapid urbanisation has stressed essential infrastructure, the award places BWSSB at the forefront of water management practices. The certification underscores the utility’s commitment to providing high-quality drinking water while tackling issues such as resource management and environmental sustainability.The certification process scrutinised various facets of BWSSB’s operations, from the intake of water from sources, its treatment and storage, to the pumping and distribution network that supplies homes and businesses. The BIS team also examined the ongoing maintenance, quality assurance protocols, and the metering and billing systems that ensure fairness and accuracy in consumer billing. BWSSB’s comprehensive approach to water management met the strict criteria set by BIS, cementing its reputation as a model for other water utilities.Speaking on the achievement, an official from the Bengaluru Development Ministry described the recognition as a proud moment, highlighting how it aligns with the city’s broader commitment to sustainability and urban excellence.
According to the official, the BIS certification not only represents quality assurance but also aligns with the state government’s goals of developing Bengaluru as a global model of urban sustainability.The recognition enhances the city’s image as a forward-thinking metropolis with an efficient water supply system capable of meeting future demands.The process of obtaining the BIS certification was both comprehensive and challenging. BWSSB had to demonstrate that its practices adhered to global best practices, integrating modern technology and innovative solutions into its water supply system. The certification also reflects the board’s focus on ensuring that every aspect of water management from source to delivery is efficient, secure, and sustainable.The BWSSB’s work spans beyond just water treatment and distribution; the board has taken proactive steps to ensure sustainability, addressing issues like reducing water wastage, enhancing water conservation efforts, and incorporating eco-friendly practices throughout its operations. The board’s initiatives to minimise water loss through leakage detection systems, coupled with its efforts to improve the overall efficiency of the water supply, show a forward-thinking approach to urban resource management.
The city’s growing population has presented significant challenges to water supply systems. With increasing demand, the need for a high-performing, robust water management system has never been greater. The BIS certification now stands as a testament to BWSSB’s ability to maintain the high standards required for such a vital service. The board’s ability to efficiently manage the city’s water resources is crucial not just for Bengaluru’s residents but also as a model for other urban centres dealing with similar issues.In addition to its success in water supply management, BWSSB has also made strides in other aspects of urban infrastructure. The board’s ongoing efforts to upgrade its systems, embrace technological advancements, and work with local communities to ensure sustainable usage of resources have helped bolster its standing as a leading utility in the country.
The BIS certification is also seen as a stepping stone for further collaborations and innovations in water management. It could serve as a blueprint for other utilities across India, inspiring them to enhance the quality and efficiency of their own systems. By reaching this milestone, BWSSB has reaffirmed its leadership in India’s water sector and set the bar for future initiatives.
