Bengaluru: With a view to thwarting water tanker mafia, BWSSB to sell water @ Rs 90/1k L

As summer intensifies, Bengaluru faces an unavoidable demand for drinking water, prompting concerns over the rise of the tanker mafia. With groundwater levels dropping by 25 meters across 80 wards, many government borewells lie abandoned, leaving residents dependent on private water suppliers. To counter the exploitation by tanker owners, the Water Board has devised a plan to ensure regulated and affordable water distribution.

Also Read: Bengaluru: BWSSB bans borewell drilling amid groundwater crisis

To curb illegal price hikes and unauthorized water supply, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is considering the opening of 55 Cauvery Connect Centers where residents can purchase water directly. This move aims to break the monopoly of private tanker operators and provide fair pricing for consumers. The board has fixed the price at ₹90 for the first 1,000 liters, ensuring affordability.

Additionally, the Water Board has mandated online payments, eliminating cash transactions to prevent black-market dealings. A dedicated tanker booking system has been introduced, requiring customers to arrange for tankers independently while ensuring water supply through 50,000-liter GRP tankers stationed at 15 key locations.

Cauvery Connect Centers will be established in Bellandur, Varthur Kodi, Kadugodi, Kalyananagar, and other major areas, making water procurement easier for residents. With strict monitoring and proactive measures, the BWSSB aims to prevent water shortages while thwarting the tanker mafia’s control over supply and pricing.