BWSSB launches door-to-door campaign to promote Cauvery V Stage

in over a month, BWSSB received only around 3,000 applications against its target of 3 lakh connections in the 110 villages covered by the project

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has initiated a door-to-door campaign in 110 villages to encourage residents to apply for Cauvery water connections under the Stage V project. This move aims to address the low response rates and complaints about middlemen exploiting the application process. 

Cauvery Stage V was inaugurated on October 16, 2024. However, in over a month, BWSSB received only around 3,000 applications against its target of 3 lakh connections in the 110 villages covered by the project. “We have received approximately 3,000 applications and 30,000 inquiries, which we see as a reasonable start,” said BWSSB Chairman Ram Prasath Manohar.

While many residents have cited high pro-rata charges, especially for apartment communities, as a barrier to applying, Mr. Manohar emphasised that availing Cauvery water connections is cost-effective in the long term. “We anticipate more residential communities will come forward, especially during the summer months when water scarcity intensifies,” he added.

Middlemen issue

The Board is also addressing complaints about middlemen exploiting residents by demanding bribes and cash payments, falsely promising to facilitate formalities. “We have received such complaints and are actively investigating them,” said Mr. Manohar, urging residents to report such incidents to the BWSSB Vigilance Cell. “All complaints will be handled confidentially, and we will ensure strict action against those found guilty.”

To counter the issue, BWSSB has launched the campaign “Mane Manegoo Cauvery Neeru - Samparka Abhiyana” (Cauvery Water to Every Home – Outreach Campaign). As part of this initiative, officials will set up camps in prominent public spaces across the city, allowing residents to apply for connections directly without involving middlemen.

Tech problems

Mr. Manohar mentioned that some issues with the online application portal had been resolved following instructions from Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D. K. Shivakumar. Residents can now apply for connections either online through the BWSSB website or offline at these camps.

“The connection fees must be paid only through RTGS, NEFT, or a demand draft,” Mr. Manohar clarified. “Residents should avoid engaging middlemen or making cash payments to prevent fraud.”

Published - November 27, 2024 09:28 pm IST