Bengaluru Sets Fixed Rates for Water Tankers, Cracks Down on Illicit Operations

In response to a growing water crisis in Bengaluru and concerns over the escalating prices charged by private water tankers, the district administration has taken action by establishing fixed rates for 200 private tankers operating in the city. This initiative comes as a measure to curb illicit water tanker operations and address the severe water shortage faced by the Karnataka capital.

Bengaluru has been grappling with water shortage since February

The decision to standardize tanker rates for a four-month period was taken following an appeal from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB). The rates apply to approximately 200 private tankers deployed on a contractual basis to supply water to the city.

For distances within 5 km, the fixed rates for a 6,000-litre water tanker are Rs 600, while an 8,000-litre tanker costs Rs 700, and a 12,000-litre tanker is priced at Rs 1,000, inclusive of GST. Beyond 5 km but within 10 km, the rates are Rs 750 for a 6,000-litre tanker, Rs 850 for an 8,000-litre tanker, and Rs 1,200 for a 12,000-litre tanker.

With an estimated 60% of Bengaluru’s population depending on tanker water, numerous residents have expressed concerns about private tankers charging exorbitant prices, ranging from Rs 1,800 to Rs 2,000 for a 12,000-litre tanker.

The water crisis has triggered a political blame game between the ruling Congress and BJP in Karnataka. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya criticized the Siddaramaiah government for alleged inaction despite expert warnings, threatening protests if decisive measures were not taken promptly. Surya highlighted the neglect of Bengaluru’s water crisis and called for urgent action.

In response, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah acknowledged that 123 out of 136 taluks in the state have been declared drought-hit, with 109 severely affected. BJP MP Tejasvi Surya proposed supplying treated water to industrial complexes for non-potable use and emphasized the need to recharge aquifers by directing treated water to lakes.

The water tanker rate standardization aims to alleviate the challenges posed by illicit tanker operations and ensure a more regulated and equitable distribution of water resources in Bengaluru.