The Deccan Herald 02.09.2010
Builders continue to seek water
Bangalore, September 1, DHNS:
Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) minister Katta Subramanya Naidu’s recent announcement that no new water connections will be given to any new projects in core Bangalore area has not deterred 38 agencies from filing for 'no objection certificates' (NOC).
As many as 10 groups are also awaiting approval for water supply and sanitary connections.
The minister had decided not to sanction fresh water connections to multi-storeyed residential and commercial apartments in the BWSSB limits till 2011 end in the core areas due to severe water scarcity.
However, this does not cover single residential buildings (ground plus three floors). An official from BWSSB said every day many builders are applying for NOC and new water connections for apartments. "Normally we reject their appeals. However, we suggest them to send a letter to the minister directly. If the minister approves them, we will sanction," he added.
Most of the applications are from builders from the old CMC areas which have now been added to BBMP. There are around 72 new wards which still depend on groundwater. The minister recently said that the ambitious Phase II of Cauvery stage IV will be completed before the scheduled date.
Another official from BWSSB said that nearly Rs 260 crore has been collected as 'beneficiary capital contribution' towards water supply from these new areas; although many residents are yet to pay the amount.
