Fri Feb 07 01:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Bengaluru Avoids Water Crisis This Summer Thanks to Cauvery V Stage
**Bengaluru, February 7, 2025** – Bengaluru residents with Cauvery water connections are expected to face no water shortages this summer, a stark contrast to last year’s severe water cuts. This is largely attributed to the successful commissioning of the Cauvery V Stage project, which has significantly increased water availability.
The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) chairman, V. Ram Prasath Manohar, reported a surge in applications for Cauvery water connections following the project’s launch in October 2024. While the initial response was lukewarm, the approaching summer spurred a dramatic increase in demand. The BWSSB received 58,543 applications in 2024, providing 38,013 new connections and generating ₹887.82 crore in revenue. Work continues to connect the remaining 20,000 applicants.
Mr. Manohar attributed the improved water situation to good monsoon rains in 2024 and the increased capacity of the Cauvery V Stage, which allows the city to draw its allocated 2,220 MLD of water. However, he cautioned that those relying on groundwater will likely still face shortages, with a recent Indian Institute of Science study predicting a significant depletion in groundwater levels in 110 villages. The Cauvery V Stage is designed to serve these areas by March-April 2025.
To address areas still lacking water connections, the BWSSB is establishing 10 temporary “Cauvery Connect Centres” offering Cauvery water at ₹90/kilolitre. Residents must arrange their own transport. Smaller tanks will also be placed in slum areas. The Board is also exploring legal options to make Cauvery V Stage connections mandatory for apartment complexes to prevent groundwater over-exploitation.
Despite the improved water supply, eight villages still await water network connections due to land disputes. Water tanker demand has drastically reduced, with prices remaining stable.
First Piper 