News Brief
Bengaluru's Water Woes: Here's What Deputy CM D K Shivakumar Said On The "Big Problem" In The Rapidly Growing City
Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar.
In a recent development, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has highlighted the pressing issue of supplying drinking water to Bengaluru, describing it as both a "big problem" and a necessity for a "major solution."
“Bengaluru is rapidly growing. Every year, the city’s population is rising by 10 lakh. Water is a big problem. But for the sake of Bengaluru's respect and pride, we want to prioritise drinking water,” Shivakumar said.
Responding to concerns raised by Jayanagar BJP MLA C K Ramamurthy regarding the lack of Cauvery water supply to slum dwellers in his constituency, Shivakumar mentioned the challenges posed by Bengaluru's rapid urbanization.
As reported by Deccan Herald, He noted that approximately 20 per cent of the city's water needs are currently met through tanker deliveries.
Shivakumar also noted that the government has not raised water tariffs in the city.
“While all other rates have been raised, the water tariff hasn’t gone up since 2013 due to politics and other reasons. There’s a big problem,” he said.
To mitigate the water scarcity, Shivakumar disclosed that he has issued an order allocating an additional six tmc ft of Cauvery water to Bengaluru for drinking purposes.
Furthermore, he highlighted the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board's (BWSSB) initiative to provide 10,000 liters of free Cauvery water monthly to slum dwellers since 2017.
Explaining the process of water distribution to slum areas, Shivakumar mentioned, "Water connection will be provided after the Karnataka Slum Development Board pays pro rata and other charges to the BWSSB."
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