Bengaluru: BWSSB, which is not finding many takers for recycled water, is now trying to persuade industries and prominent builders to use it for construction, industrial and other non-potable needs. It had earlier sent letters to industries, but it did not yield and desired result.
Ramakrishna S.M., chief engineer, Waste Water Management, BWSSB, told Deccan Chronicle, "As there are no takers for recycled water, most of it is let down the drains. We have already written letters to industries in the city requesting them to purchase recycled water for non-potable needs. But we haven't received any positive sign from them."
Pointing out that efforts are being made by the water board to persuade industries and builders to use recycled water, Ramakrishna said "We have been making lot of efforts to convince industries to use recycled water. It is currently being used at Cubbon Park, Lalbagh, Bangalore International Airport Limited, Bharat Electronics Limited and supplied to few private industries based on demand."
As fresh Cauvery water and groundwater is easily available, they are reluctant to use tertiary water, he said.
On being asked why BWSSB was not taking any steps to restrict the supply of fresh water, Ramakrishna said "We are the ones who should be supplying water to people. We cannot restrict the use of fresh water. Until people make up their mind to use recycled water, nothing big can be achieved. We cannot compel people to do anything, it should come from them." He further stated that such restrictions may be enforced in the future. At present people are not facing any water shortage, hence they are not keen on taking measures to conserve water. Due to financial constraints the BWSSB has not taken up any measures to supply recycled water to people in separate pipeline as crores would be required to implement it, Ramakrishna explained.
But our efforts in urging people to use recycled water will not stop. In our continued effort we will try to persuade the industries to purchase treated water. Our officials have also started interacting with prominent builders, who can use the recycled water in bulk for construction activities, Ramakrishna added.
