Residents of HSR Layout in Bangalore are up in arms over chronic water shortages and neglected sewage management, prompting severe criticism of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). Amidst escalating frustration, the Federation of HSR Layout Residents has issued a stern ultimatum to BWSSB, demanding immediate rectification of supply issues and adequate sewage infrastructure.
For years, residents have endured erratic water supply, dwindling to once a week in recent times, exacerbating hardships exacerbated by the rapid influx of new residents and commercial ventures. Chandra Shekar HE, Federation Secretary, emphasized their plea for regular water supply on alternate days and an increase of 40 MLD to meet burgeoning demands in the area. Complaints highlight stark disparities, with neighboring areas receiving more consistent water allocation. Residents attribute this inconsistency to poor communication from BWSSB engineers, citing excuses like water scarcity, damaged main supply lines, and electrical interruptions. Moreover, concerns over sewage management have compounded the crisis. Outdated sewage lines, inadequately maintained since the layout’s inception, now struggle to cope with the growing population, resulting in frequent overflow incidents. Residents report inaccessible sewage chambers buried beneath cemented surfaces, forcing sewage into stormwater drains, aggravating health hazards.
Furthermore, allegations of bureaucratic apathy surface as residents decry BWSSB’s non-responsiveness to multiple RTI applications seeking clarity on water allocation, revenue collection, and infrastructure expansion plans. Despite over 25,000 households reliant on BWSSB services and ongoing approvals for new developments, grievances remain unaddressed. The financial burden of relying on tanker water exacerbates the situation, with residents paying up to Rs 1,800 for a 6,000-litre tanker due to inadequate BWSSB supply. This unsustainable solution underscores the urgent need for BWSSB to implement effective measures to alleviate water scarcity and improve sewage infrastructure in HSR Layout. As frustrations mount, residents warn of potential protests if BWSSB fails to heed their demands promptly. The situation in HSR Layout serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for robust urban water management strategies to sustainably meet growing urban demands amidst infrastructure challenges.
