Bengaluru’s Water Supply Challenges and Solutions

Bengaluru faces challenges in its water supply system. The city’s rapid population growth has outpaced its water infrastructure. Recent discussions led by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) chairman highlight the urgent need for revisions in drinking water tariffs. This necessity arises from rising operational costs and financial shortfalls. The last tariff revision occurred in 2014. The Cauvery Stage V project, inaugurated recently, aims to extend water supply to newly added areas. However, it has further increased the operational costs for BWSSB.

Current Financial Situation of BWSSB

The BWSSB’s financial health is concerning. Monthly expenditures stand at Rs 210 crore, while revenues are only Rs 129 crore. This results in a deficit of Rs 81 crore. Over the past decade, costs have risen. Electricity costs surged by 107.3%. Operating expenses increased by 122.5%. The pensions bill has also escalated by 61.3%. BWSSB projects an annual revenue shortfall of Rs 972 crore, which could rise to Rs 4,860 crore in five years.

Cauvery Water Supply Project Overview

The Cauvery Water Supply Scheme has been crucial for Bengaluru. The project began in 1974 to address drinking water needs. It has undergone multiple stages to expand supply. The latest, Stage V, was commissioned in October 2024. It aims to provide water to 110 new villages. Water is transported through an extensive network of pipelines. The project has historical context, evolving from reliance on local lakes to the Cauvery river.

Investment and Funding Sources

Funding for the Cauvery project comes from state resources and international loans. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has been a major contributor. Stage V required an investment of Rs 4,300 crore, with JICA providing Rs 3,000 crore. Since 1996, JICA has loaned over Rs 9,500 crore for the project. The rising operational costs have prompted calls for a tariff revision to sustain funding.

Demand-Supply Gap in Bengaluru

Bengaluru’s water supply per capita is currently inadequate. The average supply is 65 litres per person per day, falling short of the 150 litres target. Areas on the city’s periphery receive even less, at around 40-45 litres. The reliance on private water tankers is common in newly developed areas. By 2031, water demand is expected to exceed 2,900 MLD. The combined supply from all Cauvery stages will be insufficient to meet this need.

Future Prospects

A sixth phase of the Cauvery project is planned to address the ongoing water scarcity. This phase will provide an additional 500 MLD of water. The state government is actively seeking solutions to bridge the demand-supply gap. The financial sustainability of BWSSB remains a critical factor in ensuring a reliable water supply for Bengaluru’s growing population.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the impact of urbanisation on water supply systems in major Indian cities.
2. Estimate the significance of international funding in the development of urban infrastructure projects.
3. Point out the challenges faced by municipal bodies in managing water resources in rapidly growing urban areas.
4. With suitable examples, explain how climate change affects water supply and demand in metropolitan regions.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the impact of urbanisation on water supply systems in major Indian cities.

1. Urbanisation leads to increased population density, raising water demand .
2. Existing infrastructure often becomes inadequate, resulting in supply shortages and pressure on systems.
3. Rapid urban growth can lead to unplanned development, complicating efficient water distribution.
4. Increased pollution and encroachment on water bodies diminish available freshwater sources.
5. Government initiatives and reforms are necessary to modernize and expand water supply systems.

2. Estimate the significance of international funding in the development of urban infrastructure projects.

1. International funding provides essential capital for large-scale infrastructure projects, like water supply systems.
2. Agencies like JICA offer loans with favorable terms, reducing the financial burden on local governments.
3. Such funding often comes with technical expertise and best practices, enhancing project implementation.
4. International investment can stimulate local economies and create jobs during project execution.
5. However, reliance on foreign funding may lead to concerns about sovereignty and long-term financial obligations.

3. Point out the challenges faced by municipal bodies in managing water resources in rapidly growing urban areas.

1. Municipal bodies struggle with outdated infrastructure, unable to meet rising demand due to urban growth.
2. Financial constraints limit the ability to invest in necessary upgrades and maintenance.
3. Coordination among various agencies and stakeholders is often lacking, complicating resource management.
4. Water quality management is challenging due to pollution and inadequate treatment facilities.
5. Regulatory frameworks may not keep pace with rapid urbanization, leading to governance issues.

4. With suitable examples, explain how climate change affects water supply and demand in metropolitan regions.

1. Climate change leads to altered precipitation patterns, causing droughts and floods, impacting water availability.
2. Increased temperatures escalate evaporation rates, reducing surface water levels in reservoirs.
3. Examples like Chennai’s water crisis highlight how erratic rainfall can lead to severe shortages.
4. Urban heat islands exacerbate demand as cities grow hotter, increasing household water usage.
5. Mitigation strategies, such as rainwater harvesting and sustainable practices, are essential to adapt to these changes.