NEWS – BWSSB gets Climate Smart Utilities Award 2023

BY – International Water Association

OTHER DETAILS

• 2023 Second edition + Supported by African Water Association (AfWASA)
• Aims – Raise awareness of the steps being taken by water and sanitation utilities operating in challenging conditions to respond to climate change + recognise ambitious and innovative utilities in low- and middle-income countries that are leading the way towards a low carbon water and sanitation sector, embracing the shift needed to adapt to and mitigate climate change

THE INTERNATIONAL WATER ASSOCIATION

• Nonprofit organization and knowledge hub for the water sector
• Secretariat in London, UK
• Regional office in Chennai, India
• Established – 7 September 1999
• Works across a wide range of issues covering the full water cycle, with four programmes (Digital Water, Basins of the Future, Cities of the Future, Water and Sanitation Services) that work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and addressing the threat to sustainable water supplies posed by climate change

BWSSB

• Nodal agency responsible for providing water supply and sewage services in Bangalore
• Established in 1964
• Crucial role in managing water resources, ensuring water supply, and implementing sewage and sanitation projects within its jurisdiction

Key Functions of BWSSB:

• Manages the distribution of water to residential, commercial, and industrial areas in Bangalore + Manages various reservoirs, including the Cauvery River, Arkavathi River, and groundwater
• Oversees the operation of sewage treatment plants to treat wastewater before its discharge into water bodies + maintaining and expanding the sewerage network
• Monitors the quality of water supplied to ensure it meets safety and health standards
• Encourages and regulates rainwater harvesting initiatives in Bangalore to promote sustainable water management
• Undertakes projects to develop and upgrade water supply and sewage infrastructure to meet the growing demands of the city
• Initiatives for the reuse and recycling of treated wastewater are implemented to address water scarcity and promote sustainable practices
• Has regulatory functions related to water supply and sewage services, including setting tariffs, standards, and regulations.

Challenges and Initiatives:

• Population Growth: The rapid population growth in Bangalore poses challenges in meeting the increasing demand for water and sanitation services.
• Water Scarcity: The city faces periodic water scarcity issues, and the BWSSB is involved in addressing these challenges through efficient water management.
• Technological Upgradation: BWSSB continually explores and implements advanced technologies to enhance water supply and sewage services.