City stares at thirsty summer as groundwater levels decline

Experts stress need to halt unscientific drilling of borewells

- RISHITA KHANNA @Bengaluru

BENGALURU is at an ‘emergency’ point in its water crisis, hydrologists say, warning that immediate steps must be taken to avoid further depletion of the city’s groundwater.

According to a recent report by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) and Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), groundwater levels are expected to start declining in February, and the situation will intensify in March and April.

While the study highlights concerning projections, experts say they are not surprised, as they have been sounding the alarm for years.

Despite forming numerous expert committees and making detailed recommendations, the State Government has failed to take meaningful action.