• Source:JND
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Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivkumar on Friday launched ‘Sanchari Cauvery' and 'Sarala Cauvery’ scheme by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) at the Grand Steps of Vidhana Soudha, according to an official. While addressing the event he said that the ‘tanker mafia’ operates around 3,000 vorewells and charges Rs 3,000per tanker. 

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“We have launched this scheme to provide BWSSB water at an affordable rate to counter the tanker mafia. A 4,000-litre tanker is priced at Rs 660 and a 6,000-litre tanker at Rs 740,” he said in a statement issued by his office.

To address the increasing rates of private tankers and water scarcity during the summer and periods of high demand, the 'Sanchari Cauvery' initiative offers BIS-certified, government-provided clean drinking water delivered through GPS-tracked tankers, according to the release.

"This makes Bengaluru the first city in India to offer a government-managed, tech-enabled water tanker delivery system. A user-friendly mobile app and web platform have been launched to enable citizens to register and book tankers, choose suitable capacity, track the vehicle in real-time, make payments online, and receive driver and delivery information," it said.

Benefits of Key Points for ‘Sanchari Cauvery'  Scheme

OTP verification is mandatory at the time of delivery to ensure accountability. The service promises doorstep delivery within 24 hours of booking, even during peak demand periods, at no extra cost. A 24/7 helpline has also been set up for grievance redressal.

Price Details of ‘Sanchari Cauvery' Scheme Water Tankers In Bengaluru

The pricing for tankers is competitively set and significantly lower than market rates. For deliveries within a 2 km radius, a 4,000-liter tanker is priced at Rs 660, 5,000 liters at Rs 700, 6,000 liters at Rs 740, and 12,000 liters at Rs 1,290. Additional kilometers are charged at Rs 50/km for smaller tankers and Rs 70/km for the 12,000-liter capacity. The scheme ensures stable pricing and water quality, in contrast to private tankers with often-unknown sources, the release said.

In addition, the 'Sarala Cauvery' scheme was launched to simplify the process of obtaining new Cauvery water connections through an easy installment payment plan. For homes with a built-up area of up to 600 sq. ft., residents can pay an initial Rs 1,000 and the balance in 12 monthly installments, along with water usage charges and a nominal 0.15 per cent service fee. For apartments or buildings over 600 sq. ft., applicants can pay 20 per cent of the demand notice upfront and the remaining 80 per cent in 12 installments. BWSSB will provide the physical connection once the initial 20 per cent is paid. This scheme is designed to assist urban poor, middle-class families, and apartment communities struggling with high upfront costs.

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During the launch, Shivakumar highlighted the government's commitment to making water services accessible, transparent, and affordable for all citizens. He emphasized that both schemes exemplify a pro-people, technology-driven governance model that prioritizes inclusivity and accountability, ensuring equitable access to essential resources.

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