D K Shivakumar flags off 'Sanchari Cauvery' to bust water tanker mafia

Bengaluru: The 'Sanchari Cauvery' scheme was designed to put an end to the water tanker mafia in the city, said Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar after flagging off the initiative on Friday.

Speaking after launching two programmes — Sanchari Cauvery and Sarala Cauvery — Shivakumar said water tankers in the city were overpriced, with many charging up to Rs 3,000 per tanker. "This is not a simple scheme. Under this initiative, a 4,000-litre water tanker is priced at Rs 660 and a 6,000-litre tanker at Rs 740,” he said.

He added that both schemes represent a pro-people, technology-driven governance model prioritising inclusivity and accountability.

The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) has launched a mobile application and a web platform to enable citizens to register and book tankers, select the required capacity, track the vehicle in real-time, make online payments, and receive driver and delivery details. An OTP verification is mandatory at the time of delivery to ensure accountability.

"The service guarantees doorstep delivery within 24 hours of booking, even during peak demand periods, at no additional cost. A 24/7 helpline has also been set up for grievance redressal,” the BWSSB said in a release.

'Sarala Cauvery' scheme

Under the 'Sarala Cauvery' scheme, the BWSSB will provide EMI options for those applying for Cauvery water connections. For houses with a built-up area of up to 600 sqft, residents can pay Rs 1,000 initially, with the balance payable in 12 equal monthly instalments, alongside water usage charges and a 0.15% service fee.

"For apartments and buildings above 600 sqft, applicants can pay 20% of the demand notice amount upfront and the remaining 80% in 12 monthly instalments. The BWSSB will provide the physical connection upon payment of the initial 20%. This scheme is aimed at supporting the urban poor, middle-class families, and apartment communities who struggle with large upfront costs,” the BWSSB added.