The Aryavarth Express
Agency( Bangalore): The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is on the verge of unveiling a web portal aimed at simplifying the process for consumers to acquire treated water, suitable for non-potable uses. This innovative platform, which is slated for launch within the next three days, is expected to significantly benefit commercial entities and industries by providing them access to large volumes of treated water.
Dr. Ramprasat Manohar V, the Chairman of BWSSB, emphasized the urgency and importance of this initiative, noting that treated water could serve a wide range of purposes, especially amidst the prevailing water scarcity in Bengaluru. This move is particularly geared towards aiding bulk consumers by offering an efficient solution to their substantial water needs.
The logistics for distributing treated water are currently being finalized, with a pricing model set at Rs 10 for every 1,000 liters. While BWSSB faces challenges in securing immediate tanker availability for water delivery, customers who can provide their own tankers will receive prompt service. Others may incur additional fees for tanker use, depending on availability.
This initiative comes at a crucial time, as industries have voiced their struggles with securing sufficient water for basic operations and worker needs. Furthermore, BWSSB has introduced restrictions on using potable water for secondary activities such as cleaning and gardening, making treated water an invaluable alternative for both commercial and domestic consumers.
Research underscores the potential of treated water in addressing nearly 40% of Bengaluru’s water demand. Shreya Nath, Managing Partner of the Urban Water Programme at Well Labs, highlighted the critical role of treated water in ensuring the city’s water security, given its limited water sources. Presently, Bengaluru produces approximately 2,000 million liters per day (MLD) of wastewater, with just about 655 MLD being reused. Of this, BWSSB treats around 1,240 MLD.
In a related development, Eshwar B Khandre, the Minister for Forest, Ecology, and Environment, announced forthcoming regulations to permit the sale of treated water by apartment complexes and private entities operating Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs). Bengaluru, with its 2,644 decentralized STPs, stands at the forefront of urban sewage treatment efforts.
This strategic move by BWSSB to launch a water booking portal is a step forward in optimizing the use of treated water, contributing to the sustainable management of the city’s water resources.
