Cape Town delegation visits Bengaluru to discuss water, energy, and IT collaboration

A delegation from Cape Town, South Africa, recently visited Bengaluru for a two-day knowledge exchange on water and energy conservation, while also exploring potential IT collaborations. The delegation, led by Alderman James Vos, Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Growth and Tourism, met Karnataka IT Minister Priyank Kharge to discuss key areas of cooperation.

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Cape Town, which once faced a severe water crisis, has since become a global model for sustainable water management. Speaking about the city’s turnaround, Vos reportedly highlighted that Cape Town successfully reduced water consumption by 50% through citizen engagement and real-time monitoring. A transparent system, including a dashboard tracking water levels, helped prevent depletion.

With Bengaluru also tackling water shortages, discussions centered on improving infrastructure and conservation efforts. Karnataka authorities are investing in water management initiatives, including pipeline upgrades, aquifer-based extraction, wastewater treatment expansion, and stricter rainwater harvesting regulations.

Beyond water conservation, the Cape Town delegation advocated for stronger tourism ties. Vos emphasized the need for direct flights between Bengaluru and Cape Town, citing high demand and an ongoing tourism campaign in India.

The visit marks a step towards fostering stronger economic and environmental cooperation between the two cities.