Managing Bengaluru's Water Crisis: Regulating Private Tanker Charges

During Bengaluru's water crisis, the district administration has set prices for 200 private tankers for a four-month period in an effort to crack down on illegal water tanker operations. The announcement coincides with private tankers tripling their rates due to a severe water scarcity in the capital of Karnataka.

Bangalore City has contracted for the use of about 200 private tankers to supply water. After receiving a request from the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), the district collector of Bangalore City standardised the tanker charges.

A 6,000-litre water tanker will cost Rs 600 for a 5-mile trip. Tankers with 8,000 and 12,000 litres will set you back Rs. 700 and Rs. 1,000, respectively. GST is also applicable in addition to these rates.

There is a fixed fee of Rs 750 for a 6,000-litre water tanker that can travel up to 10 kilometres or farther. One will have to pay Rs 850 and Rs 1,200 for an 8,000-litre and 12,000-litre tanker, respectively.

The population of Bengaluru is dependent on tanker water to the tune of over 60%. Numerous locals have voiced their displeasure about private tankers asking between Rs 1,800 and Rs 2,000 for a 12,000-litre tanker.