Bengaluru (Karnataka) [India], March 20: Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has announced that the state government will launch a month-long water conservation campaign on March 22, coinciding with World Water Day, and organize the Cauvery aarti at Sankey Tank in Bengaluru.
Speaking at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar emphasized that the Cauvery aarti is a government initiative, not a political event, despite legal objections raised by some local BJP leaders.
Key Highlights of the Announcement
- The Cauvery aarti at Sankey Tank will be part of a broader campaign to promote water conservation awareness.
- The government plans to discourage wastage of drinking water, including washing vehicles and watering gardens.
- A pledge-taking event will be held to encourage responsible water usage.
- The event will continue despite legal challenges, with the government defending it in court.
Proposed Water Tariff Hike
The Karnataka government is also considering a one paise per litre increase in Bengaluru’s water tariff, as the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has not revised rates since 2014.
- The BWSSB had proposed a 7-8 paise per litre hike, but Shivakumar rejected it, suggesting a one paise increase instead.
- The government will consult city MLAs before making a final decision.
Water Crisis & Solutions
- Last year, 7,000 borewells dried up, leading the government to take control of private water tankers.
- The 5th stage of the Cauvery water project was implemented, supplying water to 110 villages.
- Illegally connected apartments have been issued notices for not paying deposits to BWSSB.
- The government will again regulate private water tankers to prevent profiteering during the summer water crisis.
- Lakes will be refilled using treated water to recharge groundwater levels.
- The 6th stage of the Cauvery project is also in the pipeline.
Shivakumar urged the public to actively participate in the Cauvery aarti and water conservation efforts, stressing that responsible water usage is essential to tackle Bengaluru’s water challenges.