In a move aimed at promoting water conservation, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has begun charging commercial establishments for the installation of aerators on taps. This decision may result in higher water bills for some establishments in Bengaluru, as the board seeks to recover the costs associated with the installation of these water-saving devices.
Earlier this year, in March, BWSSB introduced a mandate requiring the use of aerators on taps in apartment complexes, restaurants, government offices, and various other commercial establishments. The directive was part of a broader initiative to address the city’s ongoing water crisis by reducing water consumption through more efficient use.
While a significant number of establishments promptly adhered to the new regulations, a portion of them either delayed or failed to implement the required changes. In response, BWSSB conducted inspections and proceeded to install aerators on non-compliant taps where necessary. The installation process was not without cost; the board has decided to charge Rs 50 per tap, which covers both the cost of the aerator and the installation service. This additional charge will be reflected in the current month’s water bills for the affected establishments. The BWSSB emphasised that the charge is not punitive but is intended to recoup the expenses incurred during the installation process. “Including the installation service charges, Rs 50 has been charged for every tap where we installed aerators. This will be reflected in this month’s bill,” a BWSSB official stated.
The implementation of aerators is a strategic move by BWSSB to address the water scarcity issue in Bengaluru. Aerators are designed to mix air with water, reducing the flow rate from taps without compromising the pressure. This simple yet effective technology significantly lowers water usage, making it a crucial tool in the city’s water conservation efforts. The decision to impose a charge for the installation has sparked some concern among commercial entities, particularly those that were unaware of the mandate or the associated costs. However, the BWSSB maintains that the initiative is in the best interest of the city’s long-term water management strategy and that the costs involved are minimal compared to the potential savings in water consumption. As Bengaluru continues to grapple with water scarcity, such measures are likely to become more common, with the BWSSB expected to enforce stricter compliance in the future. The board’s initiative underscores the pressing need for all sectors to participate actively in water conservation efforts, as the city strives to ensure sustainable water use for its rapidly growing population.
