In response to the escalating water scarcity crisis affecting parks maintained by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has implemented a ground-breaking initiative to preserve flora and green spaces.
With borewells in many parks experiencing low yield and some running dry, BWSSB’s recycled water solution has emerged as a lifeline for these essential urban oases. An official from the BBMP head office disclosed that measures are being pursued to repair existing borewells and redrill them deeper by an additional 100 to 200 feet exclusively for the extraction of water for park maintenance purposes. This proactive approach underscores the collaborative efforts between BWSSB and BBMP to address the critical water needs of parks amidst rising temperatures and dwindling water resources. Furthermore, volunteers in areas like KR Puram and its environs have stepped up to support park maintenance activities by watering plants in plastic pots. Individuals like Balaji Rogatham have taken it upon themselves to nurture plantings in lake park premises, supplementing the efforts of municipal bodies. At Varanasi Park in Mahadevapura, volunteers have been diligently watering approximately 400 saplings planted last year, showcasing the community’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
Meanwhile, BWSSB has implemented measures to promote water conservation across government institutions by installing 4,000 aerators in taps to regulate water flow and prevent wastage. This initiative reflects BWSSB’s commitment to sustainable water management practices and underscores the importance of individual and institutional responsibility in conserving water resources. Looking ahead, BWSSB is set to engage with trade bodies such as FKCCI and KASSIA to expand the market for treated water and encourage its widespread usage. With approximately 18,000 consumers identified as significant water users, BWSSB aims to foster greater awareness and adoption of treated water as a viable solution to mitigate the impacts of water scarcity in Bengaluru. BWSSB’s multifaceted approach to water conservation underscores the urgency and importance of collaborative efforts in addressing Bengaluru’s water scarcity challenges while ensuring the preservation of vital green spaces and urban ecosystems.
