Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board chairman Ram Prasath Manohar said that areas like South-East Bengaluru, Whitefield, and the outer city limits, which are most dependent on groundwater, are likely to face the highest water stress this summer.
Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar stated that areas such as South-East Bengaluru, Whitefield, and the outer city limits, which rely heavily on groundwater, are expected to experience the most severe water stress this summer. A recent extensive scientific study by the BWSSB to assess potential water shortages in Bengaluru has identified 80 wards, including 110 villages, as highly dependant on groundwater and at high risk of water shortages, according to a release issued by the board.
“We urge residents, especially those in high-risk wards, to reduce their dependence on groundwater and switch to Cauvery water connections. The Cauvery Phase 5 Project has increased water availability, offering a sustainable solution for Bengaluru’s growing needs,” added Manohar.
The study was a “first of its kind in India” and was done in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Manohar said. According to him, it aims to address water shortages in the IT hub this summer.
“This study is a major milestone in our efforts to ensure sustainable water management in Bengaluru. By leveraging scientific insights, we are better equipped to address challenges and implement effective solutions to meet the city’s water needs,” said Manohar.
The study also projects a decline in groundwater levels across various parts of Bengaluru, which heavily depends on borewells, extracting around 800 million litres of water daily.
In central Bengaluru, groundwater levels are projected to decline by 5 metres, while in CMC areas, the decline is expected to range between 10 and 15 metres. In the 110 villages under Bengaluru’s jurisdiction, the drop is projected to be between 20 and 25 metres.
The initiative, guided by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, included the formation of a special task force comprising IISc scientists and officials from the state and central groundwater development departments. Over the past six months, the task force has conducted a detailed analysis of Bengaluru’s water supply and groundwater data to develop a sustainable action plan.
(With PTI inputs)
Courtesy: TimesNow News
