Contrasting Scenes in Bengaluru: Holi Celebrations Amid Water Crisis

As the festival of colors, Holi, approaches, Bengaluru finds itself amidst contrasting scenes. While hotels and resorts gear up to host vibrant rain dance events and pool parties, residents grapple with the ongoing drinking water crisis. This disparity highlights the challenges faced by the city amid festive fervor and essential resource shortages.

Festive Revelry Amidst Water Woes

Holi Celebrations in Bengaluru:

• Several hotels and resorts in Bengaluru have announced rain dance events and pool parties to celebrate Holi.
• Tickets for these events are being sold on platforms like BookMyShow, with festivities scheduled to commence from March 22.
• Hotel Leroy is set to host the “biggest pool rooftop open-air Holi party 2024,” while Lago Palms resort offers an “Open Air-Pool Holi Festival.”
• Meenakshi Resorts is joining the festivities with a “pool rain dance festival,” featuring tickets priced at ₹99. Similarly, the Jayamahal Palace Hotel is offering a lively celebration with “rain dance, Punjabi dhol, unlimited colors, and Holi party till the sun sets down.”

Water Crisis Looms Over Celebrations

Residents’ Struggle for Drinking Water:

• Despite the festive spirit, Bengaluru residents continue to grapple with a severe shortage of drinking water.
• ANI reported residents queuing up outside RO water plants, highlighting the critical need for essential water supply.
• Complaints regarding untimely water supply and dependence on limited water sources persist among residents.
• With the onset of summer and no signs of rain, concerns about groundwater depletion and reduced water levels in the Kaveri River exacerbate the situation.

Government’s Response

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister’s Assurance:

• Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar responded to the concerns regarding the water shortage, affirming that there is an ample water supply in Bengaluru.
• Shivakumar assured that alternative arrangements have been made for areas facing water shortages, including the control of water tankers and identification of additional water sources.
• He emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring adequate water supply to all affected areas, underscoring efforts to mitigate the ongoing crisis.

Read also: Why Bangalore Faces Water Scarcity: Understanding the Key Factors