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As Bangalore grapples with a persistent water crisis, several underlying factors contribute to the scarcity, impacting residents across the city. Here’s a breakdown of the primary reasons behind Bangalore’s water woes:
Lack of Widespread Water Utility Services
The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has struggled to extend its water distribution network to outer zones of the city. Areas like Bellandur, Singasandra, Ramamurthy Nagar, Byatarayanapura, Jakkur, and Devarabisanahalli heavily rely on tanker water supply due to the absence of piped water services.
Non-implementation of Government Schemes
Despite various government initiatives aimed at resolving the water crisis, many proposed drinking water and sanitation schemes remain unimplemented, leading to a lack of tangible solutions.
High Dependency on Rainwater
Bangalore’s water supply heavily relies on reservoirs like Krishnaraj Sagar (KRS) and Kabini, alongside other dams and water bodies in the state. However, these reservoirs often have low storage levels, leaving the city vulnerable to water scarcity, particularly during dry seasons.
Encroachment into Natural Water Bodies
Rapid urbanization has led to the encroachment of Bangalore’s natural water bodies, such as lakes and tanks, exacerbating the loss of vital water resources and diminishing the city’s natural beauty.
Overexploitation of Groundwater
With diminishing surface water sources, residents increasingly depend on groundwater for various needs. However, overexploitation coupled with inadequate recharge mechanisms leads to depletion and wastage of this vital resource.
Depleting Water Levels in Borewells
Borewells, once a reliable source of groundwater, now require drilling to unprecedented depths, indicating the depletion of groundwater levels over the years.
Localized Distribution Network Issues
The absence of a robust water distribution network leaves residents reliant on unregulated tanker water supply, leading to issues of sanitation, availability, and pricing.
Impact of Failed Monsoons
Climate change has disrupted traditional rainfall patterns, resulting in failed monsoons and inadequate replenishment of groundwater reserves. Bangalore’s reliance on rainwater has become increasingly precarious as fossil water reserves deplete.
Read also: Bengaluru Water Crisis: BWSSB Enforces Ban on Potable Water Usage for Swimming Pools
These factors collectively underscore the urgent need for comprehensive water management strategies and conservation efforts to address Bangalore’s ongoing water scarcity crisis and ensure sustainable water access for its residents.
