The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Bangalore): In an effort to foster water conservation and accountability, the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) is considering a proposal to mandate individual water meters for all residences within new apartment complexes in the city. This initiative aims to precisely monitor the water usage of each household, thereby encouraging responsible consumption and potentially reducing overall water demand.
BWSSB Chairman Ramprasath Manohar V indicated that the board is awaiting a formal petition from the Bangalore Apartments’ Federation (BAF) before forwarding its recommendations to the state government for the amendment of building bye-laws to incorporate this requirement.
The push for individual metering stems from a broader initiative by the BWSSB to regulate water usage more effectively. In May 2020, the board introduced Regulation 43-A into its 1965 Water Supply Regulations. This regulation advises that existing buildings housing three or more families on premises larger than 2,400 square feet, as well as new constructions with similar parameters but with a reduced area requirement of over 1,200 square feet, implement sub-metering systems.
Evidence suggests that apartment complexes adhering to sub-metering have experienced a significant reduction in water consumption, with some reporting decreases of nearly 30%. This not only illustrates the effectiveness of individual metering in promoting water savings but also aligns with broader environmental sustainability goals.
Further enhancing its water conservation efforts, the BWSSB has requested apartment associations to provide detailed water usage reports. These reports should include information on the consumption of Cauvery river water, reliance on borewells, and the volume of water procured through tankers. This data will assist the BWSSB in determining the minimal water requirements for these complexes, aiming to ensure a sustainable supply.
Additionally, the BWSSB introduced a ‘green star rating’ challenge for apartment complexes this Saturday. To achieve this rating, complexes must implement five specific conservation measures: reducing water use, increasing treated water usage, applying technology in water management, constructing rainwater harvesting systems, and educating residents on water conservation.