- By Abhishek Sheoran
- Wed, 26 Feb 2025 10:41 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Borewell Ban n Bengaluru: Bengaluru has halted the approval of new borewell drilling permits due to the rapidly declining groundwater levels. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has stopped accepting fresh applications a week ago in this regard. Besides, the board announced that it will now monitor groundwater levels year-round.
The city has a finite capacity for groundwater recharge. The BWSSB acknowledged a report from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), which highlighted a significant decline in groundwater levels, particularly with the onset of summer.
The board usually receives between 200 and 300 applications for borewell drilling each month. However, during the summer, this number can rise to over 1,000. In 2024, the board processed 2,835 requests, with 1,634 coming in the summer; 1,273 of these were approved. In comparison, 2025 has seen only 600 applications so far, with just 30 approvals. The BWSSB clarified that exceptions could be made on a case-by-case basis, following a detailed review of the proposals.
Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar recently revealed that the responsibility for managing Reverse Osmosis (RO) water treatment plants, which is currently under the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), will be transferred to the BWSSB. He said the move will enhance the efficiency of water supply operations in Bengaluru, particularly as the peak summer season approaches.
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Besides, the state government has initiated a crackdown on individuals wasting water. A total of 112 cases have been filed against those misusing drinking water for non-essential activities, leading to fines totalling Rs 5.60 lakh. The BWSSB has appealed to citizens to use water responsibly and work together to ensure equitable distribution throughout the city.
