Bengaluru to face water crisis again? Here's what you need to know

NEW DELHI: Ram Prasath Manohar, Chairman of the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), said that areas such as South-East Bengaluru, Whitefield and the city's outskirts, which heavily rely on groundwater are expected to experience the highest levels of water stress this summer.

An in-depth study conducted by BWSSB to assess potential water shortages in the city identified 80 wards, including 110 villages, as areas highly reliant on groundwater and vulnerable to water shortages, according to a BWSSB statement.



Manohar emphasised, "We urge residents, particularly in high-risk areas, to reduce their reliance on groundwater and consider transitioning to Cauvery water connections. The Cauvery Phase 5 Project has significantly improved water availability, providing a long-term solution to meet Bengaluru's growing needs."

The study, conducted in partnership with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), is described as the "first of its kind in India," according to Manohar.

He further explained, "This study marks a significant step in our efforts to address water shortages in Bengaluru this summer. With scientific data, we are better prepared to face challenges and implement effective solutions to meet the city's water demands."

The study also forecasts a decline in groundwater levels across various parts of Bengaluru, which relies heavily on borewells, extracting around 800 million litres of water daily.

In central Bengaluru, a groundwater-level decline of 5 meters is expected, while in CMC areas, the decline could range from 10 to 15 meters.

In the 110 villages under Bengaluru's jurisdiction, the decline is projected to be between 20 and 25 meters.

This initiative, overseen by deputy chief minister D. K. Shivakumar, involved the creation of a special task force with IISc scientists and officials from the state and central groundwater development departments.

Over the past six months, the task force has carefully analysed Bengaluru's water supply and groundwater data to develop a sustainable action plan.

2024 water crisis

In 2024, Bengaluru faced a year of striking contrasts, swinging between a severe water crisis and recurring floods.

These challenges put the city’s infrastructure and governance to the test, driving the implementation of innovative solutions and long-term planning, though with mixed outcomes.

During the summer, Bengaluru struggled with a severe water shortage, particularly in areas dependent on borewells and water tankers. Meanwhile, the central zones, which rely on the Cauvery river, were relatively shielded from the crisis, even as the city continued to contend with an ongoing water-sharing dispute with Tamil Nadu.

(With inputs from agencies)